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Book your online appointment or visit us at our City of London clinic, open 7 days a week, offering same-day appointments.

Our experienced GP will examine the affected area, confirm the diagnosis, and discuss all available treatment options with you. Where needed, we can arrange an STI screen or additional tests, billed separately.

Optional: after the intial assessment, it's good to check in with our specialists and discuss how the treatment is going, and see whether any adjuestments are required (+£90)

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The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is based on NHS recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical conditions or treatments.

What are Genital Warts?

Genital warts are small, flesh-coloured or grey growths that appear on or around the genitals and anus. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), specifically strains 6 and 11, which together account for around 90% of genital wart cases. Genital warts are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the UK, spread through skin-to-skin sexual contact including vaginal, anal, and occasionally oral sex.

Although genital warts are not dangerous in themselves, they can cause significant distress and anxiety. The strains of HPV that cause genital warts are different from the high-risk strains associated with cervical and other genital cancers. Early assessment, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment are therefore essential. At Spital Clinic, our experienced GPs provide discreet, non-judgemental care for genital warts at our City of London clinic.

how are Genital Warts Diagnosed?

Genital warts are usually diagnosed through a visual examination by a GP or sexual health clinician. In most cases, no additional tests are required — a trained clinician can identify warts by their characteristic appearance. They most commonly appear on the penis, scrotum, vulva, vaginal walls, cervix, anus, or the skin around the groin.

At Spital Clinic, our GP will take a thorough sexual health history and carry out a careful physical examination in a private, comfortable setting. If there is any diagnostic uncertainty, or if we suspect a coexisting infection, we may recommend further swabs or blood tests. We also advise a full STI screen to check for other sexually transmitted infections. For women, we may also recommend a cervical smear if one is overdue.

What are the Main Symptoms of Genital Warts?

  • Small, fleshy, painless growths or lumps around the genitals or anus
  • Warts that are single, clustered, flat, or raised with a cauliflower-like appearance
  • Itching, burning, or mild discomfort in the affected area
  • Bleeding during or after sexual intercourse
  • Increased or unusual vaginal discharge (in women)
  • Difficulty or discomfort when passing urine if warts are near the urethra
  • Visible warts inside the vagina, on the cervix, or inside the anal canal
  • No visible symptoms — many people carry HPV without knowing
  • Warts appearing weeks, months, or even years after initial HPV exposure
  • Psychological distress, embarrassment, or anxiety related to the diagnosis
  • How are Genital Warts Treated?

    At Spital Clinic, we offer cryotherapy for the treatment of genital warts. Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the wart tissue, and is one of the most effective in-clinic treatments available. Each session costs £150, and most patients require between one and four sessions depending on the size and number of warts.

    During a cryotherapy session, liquid nitrogen is applied directly to the warts using a spray or probe, causing the tissue to freeze and blister before falling away. The procedure takes around 15–30 minutes and is performed in our City of London clinic. Most patients tolerate it well, with only mild discomfort during and shortly after treatment.NHS

    what are the Risk Factors for Genital Warts?

    Genital warts can affect anyone who is sexually active, but certain factors increase the likelihood of acquiring HPV. Having multiple sexual partners significantly raises the risk of exposure. Inconsistent or absent condom use also increases risk, as does a weakened immune system — whether due to HIV, immunosuppressant medication, or chronic stress. Smoking can also impair the body's ability to suppress HPV, making outbreaks more likely.

    How do Genital Warts Affect Your Life?

    A diagnosis of genital warts can have a significant emotional and psychological impact, often causing feelings of shame or embarrassment. It is important to remember that genital warts are extremely common — the UK Health Security Agency reports they are among the most frequently diagnosed STIs in England. With the right support and treatment, the vast majority of people manage their condition successfully and go on to lead full, healthy lives. Our GPs provide compassionate, confidential care and can discuss mental health support if needed. We can also discuss HPV Vaccines during a GP consultation if appropriate.

    Why Choose us?

    We provide a comprehensive range of services, from private GP consultations and specialised men's and women's health care to advanced ultrasound scans and proactive health screenings, all within a reassuring and state-of-the-art environment.

    Spital Clinic - Ultrasound Scans, Specialists in MSK, Cardiovascular and Gynae Ultrasounds.

    Holistic healthcare

    Spital Clinic - Clinic Icon open 7 days a week.

    open 7 days/week

    Spital Clinic - Doctor Icon, Experts with 5 star rating.

    5* rated Specialists

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    You have a question about genital warts? We have an answer.

    Is genital warts (HPV) a common STI?

    Yes — genital warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the UK. HPV is estimated to affect the majority of sexually active adults at some point in their lives. Many people carry the virus without developing visible warts, which contributes to how easily it spreads. Vaccination against HPV is available on the NHS and is highly effective at preventing the most common strains responsible for genital warts.

    Can genital warts be cured?

    Genital warts can be treated and removed, but the underlying HPV virus cannot be fully eliminated from the body. Once you have been infected with HPV, the virus may remain dormant in your skin cells. However, most people's immune systems suppress the virus over time, and many individuals never experience a recurrence after successful treatment. Treatments such as cryotherapy, topical creams, or minor surgical procedures are highly effective at clearing visible warts.

    What lifestyle measures help prevent genital warts?

    There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading genital warts: use condoms consistently during sexual activity; get vaccinated against HPV if you haven't already; limit the number of sexual partners; inform partners if you have been diagnosed; avoid sexual contact during active outbreaks; attend regular sexual health screenings; maintain a healthy immune system through good nutrition and sleep; and avoid smoking, which can impair your body's ability to suppress HPV.

    Can I have sex if I have genital warts?

    It is advisable to avoid sexual activity, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex, while you have visible genital warts. Even with condom use, HPV can be transmitted via skin-to-skin contact in areas not covered by a condom. Once your warts have been treated and have fully cleared, the risk of transmission is reduced, though the virus may still be present in the skin. We recommend being open with any sexual partners and seeking advice from our GP about when it is safe to resume sexual activity.

    How long does it take for genital warts to clear?

    With cryotherapy, most visible genital warts clear within a few weeks to a few months. Some patients see results after a single session, while others may need two to four treatments depending on the extent of the warts. Each session is £150 and is carried out at our City of London clinic.

    Even after warts have cleared, the HPV virus may remain dormant in the skin. Regular follow-up with our GP ensures treatment is working and any recurrence is addressed promptly.

    word On the street...

    According to verified reviews from platforms such as Doctify, TrustPilot and Google - 99% patients have a positive experience at Spital Clinic.

    Spital Clinic 5 Star Services in City of London. Reliable healthcare provider.

    "Great experience. Frustratingly we had 3 NIPTs come back with no result so had to do 3 blood redraws but thanks to LPC’s persistence we finally got a result on the 4th draw. After the 3rd no result they also kindly offered us a free anomaly scan."

    TL

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    Spital Clinic 5 Star Services in City of London. Reliable healthcare provider.

    "I had a surprisingly positive experience. The most friendly and helpful staff, clean and beautiful premises. The visit was smooth and quick but never felt rushed and I was able to ask all the questions I had. Thanks so much!"

    Anonymous

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    Spital Clinic 5 Star Services in City of London. Reliable healthcare provider.

    "The service was exceptional from the moment we booked to the moment we left the building post our appointment. The lovely colleagues at the main desk were great and approachable. They made the whole process very comforting."

    Rikesh Kerai

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    Spital Clinic 5 Star Services in City of London. Reliable healthcare provider.

    "I really recommend this clinic, everything was smooth and perfect. All staff are helpful and our sonographer Miss Shaz is an expert on her job, she is very kind and explained everything that we asked. I am glad to choose LPC."

    Damla Kuvet

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    Our medical centre is at 36 Spital Square, E1 6DY, City of London.