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Genital warts are a common, treatable skin condition caused by HPV. Understand what they look like, how they're diagnosed, and the treatment options available, in confidence.
Medically reviewed by Dr Benjamin Loh · MBBS, MRCS · Last updated August 20, 2026
Genital warts, also medically known as condyloma acuminata, are small or large bumps found anywhere in the genital area. They are raised to the touch and may appear white or flesh-coloured, usually with a smooth, fleshy, cauliflower-like texture.
They're caused by certain strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), transmitted through genital fluid transfer and skin-to-skin genital contact. Penetrative intercourse isn't required for transmission, and condoms reduce but don't fully eliminate the risk. Transmission during childbirth is also possible, though uncommon.
This section focuses on how genital warts commonly appear and feel:
Not sure which treatment is right for you? Talk to Dr Ben
This process, sometimes referred to as condyloma removal, can be carried out using several methods available at our clinics. Tap each to read more.
These creams contain active ingredients that stimulate the body's local immune response. Typically applied at night and washed off in the morning. Irritation, redness, or skin discolouration at the application site is possible, let your doctor know if it becomes severe.
A topical solution applied by your doctor that works by causing the wart tissue to break down. In many cases the wart falls off naturally within 3–4 days. Left on the skin for 4–5 hours before washing off. Not recommended for pregnant women.
Freezes the wart using liquid nitrogen at very low temperatures. Some pain or discomfort during the procedure is possible. The wart usually falls off within a few days, or may shrink and require a repeat session.
Removes the wart using heat, with results seen immediately. A local anaesthetic is applied first to reduce discomfort.
Treatment can clear visible warts, but it doesn't necessarily clear the underlying HPV infection, so warts can return for some patients. Your doctor can advise based on your specific case.
Untreated warts may persist, grow, or in some cases resolve without treatment, but the infection can still be passed to partners in the meantime. A clinical assessment is recommended rather than waiting to see what happens.
Yes, the Gardasil 9 vaccine is available for men and helps protect against genital warts, as well as anal and penile cancers linked to certain HPV strains. It's given as a course of 3 doses.
Resin application is generally well tolerated. Cryotherapy may cause some discomfort. Electrocautery uses a local anaesthetic. Your doctor can talk you through what to expect.
High-risk HPV strains 16 and 18 can trigger changes in cervical cells that may lead to cervical cancer, so female partners are encouraged to get screened for HPV and attend regular Pap smear tests. These high-risk strains can also cause changes in anal or rectal tissue, so men who engage in anal intercourse may carry a higher risk.
MBBS (Australia) · MRCS (Edinburgh) · DOHNS · Dip Derm
General Practitioner with a focus in Men's Health, Ear Nose Throat and Dermatology. Has practised across public and private multidisciplinary clinics in Singapore, spanning Family Medicine, ENT, Venerology and Dermatology.
Discreet, same-day consultations available. Reach out by phone, WhatsApp, or email.
