Are genital warts curable permanently?

Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus, most commonly types 6 and 11, which are low-risk types not associated with cancer. The high-risk types linked to cervical cancer are different ones and usually cause no visible warts at all. Treatment removes visible warts but does not eliminate the virus, which is why recurrence is common — a meaningful proportion of people experience recurrence, particularly within the first few months. This is expected rather than a sign treatment failed. Options include topical treatments applied at home and clinic procedures such as cryotherapy or electrocautery. Choice depends on number, site and size. In pregnancy, warts can enlarge, and some treatments are not suitable — tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to be. They rarely affect delivery. Warts do not affect fertility. Two things worth doing: continue routine cervical screening, since the high-risk types are what screening looks for; and discuss HPV vaccination if you have not been vaccinated, as it protects against types you have not yet acquired. Please see a dermatologist, gynaecologist or sexual health clinic rather than using over-the-counter wart products intended for hands.