Genital warts (condylomata acuminata) are soft growths on the skin and mucous membranes of the genitals and around the anus, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are most often passed on through sexual contact and are among the most widespread sexually transmitted infections. Although they rarely threaten your health, they are contagious, they spread and they cause discomfort and worry.
Dr Penev diagnoses and treats genital warts in men in Plovdiv, choosing the method according to the number, size and position of the warts. The options include medical treatment at home, freezing, electrocautery, laser removal and surgical excision – depending on the indications and the equipment available, often in combination.
When it is recommended
A urology examination is needed for any new growth on the penis, the scrotum, the groin, around the anus or at the opening of the urethra, and also when your partner has been diagnosed with genital warts or an HPV infection. Not every growth is a genital wart: pearly penile papules along the rim of the glans, sebaceous glands and other harmless changes are often mistaken for warts and need no treatment. The right diagnosis saves unnecessary procedures.
Treatment is recommended for visible genital warts, although some of them can go away on their own over time – the earlier treatment starts, the fewer the lesions and the shorter the treatment. Do not delay an examination if the growth bleeds, grows quickly, feels hard, is unevenly coloured or does not respond to treatment you have already had.
How it works
- Examination and dermatoscopy. Dr Penev examines the genitals, the area around the anus and the opening of the urethra. If needed, dermatoscopy gives a magnified image of the lesion and helps distinguish a genital wart from another skin growth. When indicated, testing for other sexually transmitted infections is also offered.
- Choosing a method. Creams and solutions for home use are applied according to a schedule for several weeks and are suitable for a small number of small lesions. Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen) and electrocautery are carried out at the practice, under local anaesthetic if needed, sometimes over several sessions. Laser removal and surgical excision under local anaesthetic are suitable for larger, numerous or hard-to-reach warts; the methods available depend on the equipment on site.
- Biopsy. When a lesion looks atypical – pigmented, hardened or ulcerated – or does not respond to treatment, part of it is sent for histological examination (analysis of the tissue under a microscope).
- Duration. A session usually lasts 15–30 minutes, after which you go home.
Preparation
No special preparation is needed. Have a shower before your visit and do not apply creams or ointments to the lesions on the day of the examination. Bring the results of any previous tests and treatment, if you have them, and tell Dr Penev about the medicines you take.
After the procedure
After removal, small superficial wounds remain, which heal within one to three weeks; mild burning and weeping are normal in the first few days. Keep the area clean with water and avoid sexual contact until it has fully healed.
Removal gets rid of the visible warts but not of the virus itself, so new lesions may appear during the first months. A follow-up examination after 4–8 weeks and monitoring for several months allow new lesions to be removed while they are still small. In most people the immune system gradually clears the virus over months to a few years. Condoms reduce the risk of transmission without eliminating it completely, and stopping smoking helps the body clear the virus naturally.
Where it is done
The examination and outpatient procedures are carried out at Dr Penev’s urology practice in Plovdiv, 5 Anri Barbyus St. Consultations for patients from Karlovo take place at Vita Med Medical Centre, Karlovo; the choice of method depends on the equipment available on site and is confirmed at the examination. For very extensive lesions, removal can be arranged in a hospital setting.
Price
Initial consultation – €50, follow-up consultation – €30. The price of removal depends on the method, the number of lesions and the sessions needed, and is confirmed when you book.
Genital warts are treatable, and an early examination makes treatment easier. Book an appointment with Dr Penev for a discreet consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions are needed to remove genital warts?
It depends on the method and on the number and size of the lesions. One to three sessions two to four weeks apart are often enough, while home treatment with creams continues for several weeks according to a schedule.
Should my partner be examined?
Yes, an examination by a urologist or gynaecologist is advisable even if there are no visible changes, because the infection often causes no symptoms. For women, the gynaecologist decides whether a cervical smear and an HPV test are needed.
Do genital warts lead to cancer?
The HPV types that most often cause genital warts are low-risk and are rarely linked to cancer. If a lesion looks atypical, Dr Penev takes a biopsy to rule out other conditions.
Is the HPV vaccine worthwhile if I already have genital warts?
The vaccine does not treat existing warts, but it can protect you against types of the virus you have not yet come into contact with. Whether it is suitable for you is discussed individually at the consultation.
Can I remove genital warts myself with products from the pharmacy?
Products for ordinary warts on the hands and feet are not designed for genital skin and can cause burns. Treatment of genital warts is prescribed and monitored by a doctor.
The information on this website is for general education and does not replace an examination and consultation with a doctor. If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical help immediately or call 112.