Genital Warts

Genital Warts are the second most common sexually transmitted viral infection (STI) in the UK. Although the condition poseses no medical risk they can be unsightly and cause emotional distress.

Aldara 5% cream is prescribed for the treatment of warts (condylomata acuminata) on the surface of the genitals (sexual organs) and around the anus.

To start your free online consultation please select the treatment you require from the options below. Once you have selected your treatment you will need create an account with NationWide Pharmacies and fill out the medical assessment form. Your medical assessment form will then be reviewed by our doctor and your order despatched upon approval.

What are Genital Warts?

Genital warts are the result of a viral skin infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are usually painless and do not pose a serious threat to health. However, they can appear unsightly and cause psychological distress.

Genital Warts Symptoms:

Genital warts can appear within two to three months of developing an HPV infection, but gaps of up to a year between HPV infection and the appearance of warts have been reported.

The most common places for genital warts to develop in women are:

• Around the vulva (the opening of the vagina).
• Inside the vagina.
• Around the anus.
• On the cervix (the neck of the womb).
• At the opening of the urethra.

The most common places for genital warts to develop in men are:

• On the shaft of the penis, usually just below the foreskin.
• Around the anus.
• On the glans (the head of the penis).
• Inside the urethra.
• Under the foreskin.
• Between the anus and scrotum (the bag that contains the testicles).
• On the scrotum.

Genital Warts Treatments:

Depending on the type of genital warts they can be treated by either imiquimod cream (Aldara Cream) which is better for larger, softer, warts. The cream is applied to the warts and washed off after 6-10 hours. This process is then repeated 3 times per week. For clusters of warts and warts that are hard you may need to have a physical treatment. The main physical treatments are cryotherapy, excision, electrosurgery and laser surgery.

Preventing Genital Warts:

Using a condom during vaginal, anal or oral sex is the best form of prevention against contracting genital warts. If you share sex toys with your partner you should make sure you wash them or cover them with a condom when sharing.