What should you know about freezing off genital warts?

Cryotherapy applies controlled cold to a wart, causing the treated tissue to blister, crust and heal. More than one visit may be needed, and soreness, swelling, blistering or temporary pigment change can occur. Freezing treats visible lesions but does not guarantee that new warts will not appear. Genital or anal-area growths can resemble other conditions, so examination matters before treatment.

Arrange assessment with a clinician experienced in genital skin. Tell them about pregnancy or possible pregnancy, immune problems, medicines and symptoms such as bleeding, discharge or pain. Do not use ordinary wart-removal products on genital skin. Follow the aftercare instructions, keep the area clean, avoid picking a blister or crust and ask when sexual contact and follow-up are appropriate. Partners may need advice about HPV and testing.

Seek prompt assessment for a new genital growth, an ulcer, unexplained bleeding, marked pain or a lesion that changes quickly. After freezing, contact the clinician for spreading redness, pus, fever, severe pain, difficulty passing urine or extensive swelling. Vulval skin changes that do not settle should be examined rather than repeatedly self-treated.

Ask how the diagnosis was made, whether imiquimod or another treatment is suitable, how to care for the treated skin, and whether HPV vaccination is appropriate for you.