Cryotherapy for genital warts

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.

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.

• First, the tissue is frozen with a very cold substance, such as liquid nitrogen. A doctor applies liquid nitrogen to and around the warts. Then the tissue is allowed to thaw. The tissue is frozen again, if needed.
• You may have a mild to moderate burning sensation during the treatment.

Cryotherapy is usually done in your doctor's office or clinic. You may need to have multiple visits and treatments. A magnifying tool may be used to see the abnormal tissue better.

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.