How To Treat Genital Warts
When researching how to treat genital warts, or anogential warts as they are also called, it is good to remember that they are caused by a virus. A virus is very complex so there is no one treatment that works for all patients. The main goal of treating these is anogenital warts is to remove them and have them go away. If these warts are not treated they may clear up on their own, remain the same, or increase is size or number. One form of treatment is by the use of Podofilox. A doctor will suggest this type of treatment depending on the size and location of the wart. It is often used because of its low cost.
Treatments Applied by the Patient - A 0.15% – 0.5% podophyllotoxin (also called podofilox) solution can be applied by to the affected area and is not washed off.
- Imiquimod (Aldara) is applied to the affected area. but may cause fungal infections and flu-like symptoms.
- Sinecatechins extracted from green tea and other components. It may cause less local irritation, but may take longer than imiquimod and sinecatechins to work.
Treatments Applied by a Doctor - Liquid nitrogen cryosurgery is safe for women who are pregnant. It is effective 71-79% of the time. The warts reappearance rate 38% to 73% 6 months after treatment. Local infections have been reported.
- (TCA) is less effective than cryosurgery, and is not recommended for use in the vagina, cervix, or urinary meatus.
- Large warts are best removed by surgical excision. This method has a greater risk of scarring.
- A 20% podophyllin anti-mitotic solution, can be applied to the affected area and later washed off. However, this herbal extract is not recommended for use on vagina, urethra, perianal area, or cervix. If this is used it must be applied by a physician. Side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fever, confusion, coma, renal failure, and leukopenia (a decrease in white blood cells) have been reported. Death has been reported with extensive topical application, or application on mucous membrances.
- Interferon has been used. It is expensive and its effect is inconsistent.
Discontinued Forms of Treatment - A 5% 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) cream was used, but it is no longer considered an acceptable treatment due to the side-effects.
WARNING: Podophyllin and podofilox should not be used during pregnancy, as they are absorbed by the skin and could cause birth defects in the fetus. When are trying to figure out how to treat genital warts remember never use an over the counter treatment, or home remedy without consulting a health care provider.
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