Does cryotherapy treat genital warts?

Genital warts are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus. A clinician applies controlled cold to each visible wart, which may blister, crust, and shrink as the skin heals. Treatment addresses visible growths rather than guaranteeing that the virus has left the skin, so warts can recur. The genital area is sensitive; soreness, irritation, temporary colour change, and small wounds can occur. The clinician may choose another option when warts are extensive, internal, unusually pigmented, or not clearly typical.

Have the growths examined before treatment, and tell the clinician if you are pregnant, immunocompromised, or using products on the area. Avoid cutting, picking, or using over-the-counter wart removers intended for hands or feet. Keep treated skin clean, follow bathing and sexual-activity advice, and discuss condom use, partner communication, and testing for other sexually transmitted infections. Keep follow-up appointments if new or residual warts appear.

Seek prompt review for bleeding, ulceration, severe pain, urinary difficulty, unusual pigmentation, or a rapidly changing growth. After cryotherapy, contact the clinic for spreading redness, pus, fever, significant swelling, or pain that is worsening rather than easing. Internal lesions, pregnancy, or uncertainty about the diagnosis also call for clinician-led assessment.

Ask how the diagnosis was made, how many sessions may be needed, how to protect the treated skin, when sexual contact is appropriate, and whether you or your partner should receive further sexual-health care.