GENITAL warts remain one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affecting both men and women across Jamaica. Caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is spread from intimate contact (condoms don’t necessarily prevent transmission), these growths can appear on the vulva, vagina, cervix, penis, scrotum, or around the anus. While not life-threatening, they can be uncomfortable, distressing, and at times impact confidence and intimate relationships. They typically resemble a “cauliflower-like” appearance and may be associated with intense itching. They can grow slowly or rapidly over weeks to months depending on the individual.

Why early treatment matters

Many individuals delay seeking medical attention due to embarrassment or the belief that the problem will simply “go away”. Unfortunately, untreated genital warts may increase in size and number, leading to more complicated treatment. Just as with fibroids or abnormal Pap smears, early medical intervention makes management easier and outcomes better.

Take, for example, a 32-year-old patient who came to my clinic after struggling with persistent itching and small growths for several months. Initially, she tried over-the-counter creams and home remedies. By the time she presented, the warts had multiplied, and she required several treatment sessions. Compare this with another 27-year-old woman who sought help at my clinic – within two weeks of noticing a small lesion, she required only one simple outpatient treatment, with minimal discomfort and had an excellent result.

It is important to note that some small warts can fall off on their own, but guidance by a physician is necessary. It is not recommended to try and remove them by yourself as this can lead to further infection and spread.

Treatment options available in Jamaica

1) Topical medications – Prescription creams applied directly to the warts can destroy the abnormal tissue. These require multiple applications and close follow-up by a doctor to monitor response. Examples of these are Podowart, Aldara and Potassium Permanganate, which all work at a cellular level and helps to destroy the HPV virus within the lesion.

2) Cryotherapy – This involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen. The cold destroys abnormal tissue, and over time the lesion falls away. Several sessions may be required. This is similar to the treatment of CIN 1 for precancerous lesions of the cervix.

3) Electrocautery/laser therapy – These procedures burn or vaporise the wart tissue and, with time, will eventually fall off and new tissue will be remodelled. They are effective, but may require local anaesthesia and are best done in controlled medical settings.

4) Surgical removal – For larger or resistant warts, minor surgery under local or general anaesthesia may be the best option. This allows immediate removal via using a knife, radiofrequency, or electocautery energy device. A healing time of around three to four weeks is required. The area is then sutured closed using absorbable sutures for cosmesis.

5) Immune-boosting approaches – Because HPV affects the immune system, some treatments focus on stimulating the body’s own defences to fight the virus, such as a high diet with B12 and folate.

Prevention is key

The HPV vaccine is widely available in Jamaica and protects against the strains of HPV that most commonly cause genital warts and cervical cancer. Regular Pap smears and STI screening remain essential for women. For men and women alike, consistent condom use may reduce the risk of transmission. HPV is spread from skin-to-skin contact and loves the genital region, condoms only protect the shaft of the penis, so if the virus is present in the skin of the groin or the thighs, it can easily be transmitted.

Genital warts are not a reflection of someone’s lifestyle, morality, or hygiene. They are a medical condition, and like hypertension, diabetes, or fibroids — they deserve early recognition and treatment. Seeking help from a trained gynaecologist or sexual health specialist ensures safe, effective management and reduces the risk of complications.

As Jamaicans, we must remove the stigma around sexual health and encourage open conversations. When treated early, genital warts can be managed effectively, allowing individuals to return to normal, healthy, and fulfilling lives.

Dr Daryl Daley is a cosmetic gynaecologist and obstetrician. He is located at 3D Gynaecology Limited, 23 Tangerine Place, Kingston 10. Feel free to contact Dr Daley at ddaley@3dgynae.com.

Dr Daryl Daley .