References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Genital warts themselves can be treated and removed, but the HPV virus that causes them may remain in the body. In most people, the immune system clears HPV within 1-2 years, after which warts typically don’t return. Treatment focuses on removing visible warts, while the body handles the virus itself.
Order a discreet home STI test
Treatment Options
| Treatment | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Podophyllotoxin cream | Applied at home; destroys wart tissue |
| Imiquimod cream | Boosts local immune response |
| Cryotherapy | Freezing warts at a clinic |
| Surgical removal | For larger or persistent warts |
Recurrence
- Warts can return after treatment
- Most recurrences happen within 3 months
- Over time, the immune system clears HPV and recurrences stop
- Smoking slows clearance
HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine prevents infection with the types that cause most genital warts (types 6 and 11). Even after warts, vaccination can protect against other types you haven’t caught.
Read more: What is HPV? | Warts vs herpes | Can HPV clear?
Frequently Asked Questions
Will warts go away on their own?
Sometimes, but treatment speeds resolution.
Am I still infectious after treatment?
Possibly, until the immune system clears HPV.
Can I prevent future warts?
HPV vaccine, condoms and not smoking all help.
Related reading
- Are Genital Warts Clearable?
- Can You Clear HPV Once You Have It?
- Cervical Screening When You Have HIV
- Genital Warts vs Herpes: What's the Difference?
- How to Prevent HPV
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
