However, an abnormal Pap smear often shows changes that could be caused by HPV infection. There are many different opinions about how to treat genital warts. None of the available treatments is better than another, and no single treatment is ideal for all cases. Podofilox solution or gel is a patient-applied treatment for external genital warts. It is relatively cheap, easy to use, and safe.
Imiquimod cream is a patient-applied treatment for external genital and perianal warts.
It is safe, effective, easy to use, and offers an alternative to tissue-destructive therapies. Podophyllin is a chemical compound that must be applied by a health care provider. However, treatment can be expensive and the health care provider must be well-trained in these methods. The antiviral drug interferon is sometimes used, but less expensive therapies work just as well with less discomfort. Factors that might influence selection of treatment include size, location and number of warts, changes in the warts, patient preference, cost of treatment, convenience, adverse effects, and provider experience.