As discussed in your most recent previous thread, I am surprised at the diagnosis of genital warts, but we should assume a dermatologic PA knows the condition well and that his diagnosis is accurate. However, it seems clear that he either misunderstands some aspects of HPV and genital warts; or maybe you misunderstood some of the things he said. It is true that 80% (probably closer to 90%) of all people have genital HPV infections at one time or another. The best data indicate that 20-40% of people experience genital warts at one time or another, so it's certainly an exceedingly common problem. However, there is no doubt that genital warts and HPV are sexually acquired and transmitted; there is no doubt about them being STDs.

There are several treatments for genital warts. Both podofilox (Condylox®) and imiquimod (Aldara®) are commonly used; different cases respond better to one or the other. With your warts persisting after trying Aldara, switching to an alternate treatment like Condylox makes sense. Most likely the warts will clear up within a few treatments. You really should not be either "very depressed" or seriously anxious. HPV is mostly harmless; and as already noted, it's a near universal problem, with almost all people infected at one time or another. The large majority never have any serious health outcomes.

It is beyond the abilities of this forum to provide detailed information about HPV and genital warts. These are complex topics. I would suggest you educate yourself, starting with some excellent online resources. Start with two of them:  The sponsor of this forum, the American Sexual Health Association, has excellent information; go to www.ashasexualhealth.org, then follow the links to information about STDs in general, including lots of facts about HPV and genital warts. (Among the source there are a couple of videos I did myself for ASHA several years ago, if you would like to hear my personal perspectives and advice). Second, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also is an excellent resource:  go to www.cdc.gov/std, then follow the links to learn about individual STDs including HIV and genital warts. Finally, you can also use this forum's search function:  look for HPV, human papillomavirus, and genital warts for innumerable discussions and the advice we have given hundreds of forum questioners. It is unlikely you will have any questions yourself that have not already been answered.

I hope these comments are helpful. Let me know if anything isn't clear.

HHH, MD

And once they once are cleared/treated and haven’t recurred for a few months..chances are they won’t come back? Will I ever be able to have sex again without a condom without disclosure?

Once the "warts" are gone, you need not disclose anything to any current or future sex partners. Warts and HPV are never transmitted in households to children or anyone else, only sex partners.

You also should look into being vaccinated against HPV. You can find all kinds of info about it online, at the sites already recommended and elsewhere.

By two-three treatments you mean cycles?   So technically 2-3weeks?

I really appreciate all your advice

Thanks again

That completes the two follow-up exchanges included with each question and so ends this thread. I hope the discussion has been helpful. Best wishes and stay safe.