Cryotherapy for Genital Warts

Treatment Overview

Cryotherapy (cryosurgery) destroys genital warts by freezing them. A doctor applies a very cold substance, such as liquid nitrogen, around the warts to freeze them. You may have a mild or moderate burning sensation during treatment.

What To Expect

Recovery time depends on the location and number of warts removed. Healing usually occurs in 1 to 3 weeks. After treatment, you may have:

• Irritation, soreness, or mild pain.
• Swelling.
• Dead tissue that sheds off.
• Sores or blisters.

It is best to avoid sexual contact until the treated area heals.

Why It Is Done

Cryotherapy may be done when genital warts are visible, growing in a small area, or bothersome. It's usually not used when genital warts are widespread.

How Well It Works

Cryotherapy can be helpful in removing genital warts. Most of the time it removes warts. But warts may grow back. More than one treatment is often needed.

Risks

Some risks of cryotherapy include pain during and after treatment, skin color changes, blisters, and skin irritation.

The number and severity of side effects depend on the number of freeze/thaw cycles used during cryotherapy and how large an area was treated.