Warts can be characterized by Cauliflower-like lumps. One of the most common causes of warts is by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). There are different strains of HPV. Generally, the virus causes an infection when it enters the body via a cut in the skin. It then results in cell growth, which in turn results in thickening and hardening of the skin. The end result is typically a raised wart. Warts are very contagious and can spread easily and quickly. They are spread primarily (from one person to another, or one part of the body to another) through:
physical skin contact
contact with a contaminated surface
sexual intimacy (genital warts)
biting of nails
shaving without good hygiene practice
Is there any way to test if I have warts caused by HPV?
Currently, there is no available test in Singapore that would test for the presence of HPV strains that cause warts.
What are the warts removal or treatment options available?
There are several wart removal or treatment options for genital warts in Singapore:
Podophyllotoxin For Wart Removal
This is a topical solution is applied by a doctor to the affected area which results in the necrosis (death) of the wart. This is a painless treatment. If effective, the wart would fall off 3-4 days after application. – Wart Removal Singapore
Sometimes instead of the wart dropping off, the size of the wart shrinks. In such cases, repeated treatment may be necessary. You will also be advised by your doctor to wash off the solution after 4-5 hours. This is because prolonged exposure to the solution can cause damage to the area. This therapy is not recommended in pregnant women.
This is the use of very low temperatures (<-89°C) to freeze the wart by a doctor. Generally, the low temperature is achieved using liquid nitrogen. You may experience some discomfort or pain. If successful, the wart will fall off over the next few days. As with podophyllotoxin treatment sometimes, the wart shrinks in size instead and thus may require repeat treatment. – Wart Removal Singapore
Imiquimod Cream For Wart Removal
This is an active immune enhancer that stimulates production of interferon and other cytokines. This is generally applied daily at night. You will need to wash off the cream the following morning. There may be some local irritation/ redness or some discoloration of the skin after using the cream.
Electrocautery For Wart Removal
This treatment essentially burns off the wart. Thus the effect is immediate. Local anesthetic is applied/ injected into the area to decrease pain before the procedure. – Wart Removal Singapore
Other surgical treatments such as CO2 Lasers are usually reserved for larger warts. Some minor bleeding may be expected during such procedures. – Wart Removal Singapore
Will genital warts recur? Is there a vaccination available?
Generally, for many people, genital warts will recur even after successful treatment.
Gardasil 9 vaccine is available to prevent genital warts as well as cervical/ anal/ penile cancers caused by certain strains of HPV. It requires 3 doses. Speak to your doctor if you like to find out more about the vaccine.
Need male or female doctors for wart removal?
In our clinics, we offer Podophyllotoxin, Imiquimod, Cryosucess and Electrocautery. Visit our STD Clinics or drop us an email at hello@dtapclinic.com.sg for an appointment with our doctors. Female doctors available upon request. – Wart Removal Singapore
Speak to our doctors today
Singapore STD/STI Clinic
If you have symptoms suggestive that you have been infected with genital warts, please speak to any of our friendly doctors to discuss treatment options.
Please call or visit any of our clinics or drop us an email at hello@dtapclinic.com.sg for an appointment.
(Female doctors are available in our Kovan, Orchard & Robertson Walk Branches)