
Contents
- What Is HPV?
- How Are Genital Warts Transmitted?
- Symptoms of Genital Warts
- Complications of HPV Infection
- Importance of Pap Smear Screening
- The Role of the Immune System
- Diagnosis of Genital Warts
- Genital Warts Treatment Options in Turkey
- Laser Genital Wart Treatment
- Treatment Duration
- Genital Warts Treatment Cost in Turkey
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Genital warts, caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), are a common sexually transmitted infection that can affect both men and women. They appear as small, flesh-colored or grey growths resembling skin tags and may form in clusters in moist areas of the genital or anal region. While often painless, genital warts can cause discomfort during sexual activity and lead to psychological distress due to their appearance. More importantly, untreated HPV strains may lead to serious health complications such as cervical, penile, or anal cancer. Therefore, genital warts treatment is essential not only for aesthetic reasons but also for long-term health.
What Is HPV?
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a viral infection with over 200 known strains. While many HPV types cause harmless warts, high-risk types like HPV 16 and 18 are closely associated with cervical cancer in women and other cancers in men. Most sexually active individuals will be exposed to HPV at some point, often without showing symptoms.
How Are Genital Warts Transmitted?
- Sexual contact (vaginal, anal, oral)
- Skin-to-skin contact with infected areas
- Shared personal items like razors or underwear
- From mother to baby during childbirth (rare)
HPV is highly contagious and may spread even in the absence of visible warts.
Symptoms of Genital Warts
- Small, soft bumps in the genital or anal area
- Clustered warts in moist regions (condylomas)
- Itching, burning, or mild discomfort
- Bleeding during sexual intercourse
Even if symptoms are not present, the virus can still be transmitted.

Complications of HPV Infection
Besides causing genital warts, HPV is responsible for:
- Cervical cancer in women
- Penile and anal cancer in men
- Throat and oral cancers in both genders
Importance of Pap Smear Screening
A Pap smear is a painless test to detect abnormal cervical cells. Early diagnosis of HPV-related changes through annual screenings can prevent cancer progression.
The Role of the Immune System
A strong immune system can suppress HPV. Factors like poor nutrition, chronic stress, and smoking can weaken immunity, increasing the risk of wart recurrence. Lifestyle changes after treatment are critical to reduce relapses.
Diagnosis of Genital Warts
Diagnosis is mostly clinical. When needed, the following tests may be used:
- HPV DNA testing
- Pap smear
- Colposcopy (magnified inspection of the cervix)
Our clinic ensures confidential, accurate diagnosis by experienced specialists.
Genital Warts Treatment Options in Turkey
Treatment Method | Application | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
Cryotherapy | Freezing with liquid nitrogen | Fast, no anesthesia required | May need multiple sessions |
Electrocautery | Burning with electric current | Effective for large warts | Local anesthesia needed, may cause scarring |
Laser Therapy | Vaporization with laser energy | Precise, minimal tissue damage, aesthetic | Expensive, not available everywhere |
Topical Medications | Creams and solutions | Can be applied at home | Requires long-term use and doctor guidance |
Surgical Excision | Removal with scalpel | Suitable for resistant or large warts | Healing period, minor scarring possible |
Laser Genital Wart Treatment
Laser therapy is an advanced, minimally invasive option that removes warts with minimal damage to surrounding tissue. It offers an aesthetic outcome and faster recovery, especially suitable for visible or recurrent warts.
Treatment Duration
Treatment length depends on:
- The size and number of warts
- The location of the lesions
- The selected treatment method
Some patients may require multiple sessions. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor recurrence.
Genital Warts Treatment Cost in Turkey
Prices vary depending on:
- The number of warts
- Treatment method used (laser, surgery, medication)
- Number of sessions required
Contact us to learn more about personalized pricing and discreet treatment plans tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can genital warts go away on their own?
Sometimes, especially with a strong immune system. However, most cases require medical treatment.
Can HPV be completely cured?
The virus may remain dormant in the body for years. While symptoms can be treated, complete viral elimination cannot be guaranteed.
Is the HPV vaccine effective against genital warts?
Yes, especially when administered at a young age. It protects against the most common wart-causing and high-risk cancer-causing strains.
Are genital warts contagious?
Yes. Even without visible symptoms, infected individuals can transmit HPV through skin contact.
Should every woman get a Pap smear?
Yes. Every sexually active woman should undergo Pap testing annually for early detection of cervical changes.
![dr.leyla-arvas-800×1000.jpg[1] dr.leyla arvas](https://www.quartz.com.tr/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/dr.leyla-arvas-800x1000.jpg1_.webp)
Author : Op. Dr Leyla ARVAS
Dr Leyla Arvas is an internationally recognised specialist in aesthetic surgery based in Istanbul. Graduated in 1998 from Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, she has developed her expertise by studying in Taiwan, Japan and Spain during her 20 years of experience.
This article June 2, 2025 was updated on
Editor: admin@quartz.com.tr