Discreet online care and prescription treatment for genital warts

Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It can present as small, flesh-colored, brown or pink bumps in the genital area. It can also create cauliflower-like clusters caused by several warts close together. Genital warts are usually spread via vaginal and/or oral sex.

Genital warts are caused by different strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Most people will become infected with a strain of HPV through skin-to-skin contact at some point in their lives. While genital warts is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it can also be passed through non-sexual skin-to-skin contact. This can include birth, which can expose newborns to the virus.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STI, causing millions of new HPV infection cases yearly. HPV alters the natural cell cycle, allowing it to escape the body’s immune response and alter how cells grow and reproduce. This is how genital warts and other conditions (like cervical cancer) develop.

How long an outbreak of genital warts lasts can vary widely. Sometimes, HPV goes away within a few months. For others, outbreaks can last for years. There’s no cure for HPV. But the right treatment can help speed the healing process and reduce the risk of spreading it to sexual partners.

The HPV vaccine (Gardasil-9 as of 2016) is the safest way to protect yourself from infection. Gardasil-9 protects against 9 of the most common forms of HPV. Complete immunity takes 6 months and requires 3 spaced doses. So healthcare providers often recommend that people get vaccinated before they become sexually active.

People at high risk for HPV include those who have intercourse with a partner whose sexual history is unknown, people with a suppressed immune system (which can increase the risk of treatment resistance) and those who smoke.

Dr. B does not offer genital warts pill treatment. But various topical treatments include Veregen, Podofilox, Condylox, Sinecatechins and Imiquimod cream prescriptions. Each of these treatments helps kill diseased cells to remove skin growths and contain wart outbreaks.

Topical genital warts medicines come as creams, ointments and gels. Apply a small amount to the affected area one or several times a day as directed by your medical provider.

Common side effects may include itching, burning, swelling, pain or reddening of the skin. These symptoms are typically mild and may diminish over time. Talk to your medical provider if they last or worsen over time.

Dr. B provides convenient prescriptions through an online medical consultation. Start by filling out a virtual health assessment. A board-certified doctor or medical provider will review your health and medical history—no video call required. If the provider determines that a prescription is right for you, they will send it to the pharmacy of your choice for pick-up. You can choose from several genital wart prescription medications. Not sure which is best for you? Ask the medical provider to recommend a safe, effective medication.

Right now, we don’t submit medical consultation claims to insurance companies. But you can use health insurance for any resulting prescriptions at your pharmacy.

We’ll send you a reminder for an online assessment when it’s time for your next refill.