When is electrosurgery recommended for genital warts?

Genital warts are growths associated with human papillomavirus and may occur on genital or nearby skin. Electrosurgery uses electrical heat to destroy visible wart tissue. A clinician may discuss it when lesions are accessible, raised, numerous in a focused area, or unsuitable for a topical approach. Treatment removes visible warts but does not guarantee that the virus has left the skin, so new lesions can appear and follow-up may be useful. Examination also helps distinguish warts from other bumps.

Seek assessment rather than treating genital bumps with household products. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, immune problems, medicines that affect bleeding or healing, and previous wart treatments. Ask whether the urethral opening, vagina, cervix or anal canal needs examination based on the lesion location. Follow instructions about washing, sexual contact and wound care, and avoid picking treated areas. Discuss partner communication and screening for other sexually transmitted infections when relevant.

Arrange prompt assessment for a genital growth that is painful, ulcerated, hard, rapidly changing or bleeding without contact, or for symptoms such as unusual discharge or difficulty passing urine. After treatment, seek care for heavy bleeding, fever, worsening pain, spreading redness, pus or trouble urinating.

Are these lesions genital warts or another condition? Which treatment fits their location? What wound care, follow-up and partner precautions should I follow?