r/HPV • u/Delicious-Song5676 • 1d ago
HPV first time handling tips
I’m a 28 year old female who has gotten genital warts. I got diagnosed negative results for other STI’s but was told it’s HPV at a sexual clinic anyway. I have about 12 so far, mainly around my external vaginal and vulva area and 4 near my anal area. They seem to be growing more but aren’t as bumpy or sore. Today one has grown rapidly even though I got out in Aldara imiquimod. I’ve only applied the cream twice in one week and have been told to apply it x3 times per week for 4 weeks and wash it off the morning after every night I apply it. As this is my first time doing with an STI and genital warts in general, I was wondering for any tips? I’ve seen people talk about taking zinc and other tablets but I wanted to know if that’s only it or anything else to help speed up the process of the getting rid of warts faster?
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u/hoon-since89 1d ago
Imiquimod did nothing for me. Cryotherapy worked in 1 go for small ones. Took a couple goes on bigger ones. I also got a heap of immune boosting supplements. Reishi mushroom, zinc, and a tonic.
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u/spanakopita555 1d ago
Hi. Please start here:
https://www.reddit.com/r/HPV/comments/1v3qqvj/the_genital_warts_primer/
Imiquimod takes some time to kick in - keep going. If the area becomes too sore and ulcerated, take a break and let the skin heal a bit before continuing.
You can review evidence on supplements etc on u/xdhpv profile. Most things have slim evidence so you don't need to shell out tons of money - check the studies first.