Healing Vulva Sores from Podosol: What Works?

Author: Aunt Vadge
Qualified Naturopath | BHSc(N)

Last reviewed: July 8, 2026

Hi Aunt Vadge,

I treated some warts in my vagina using podosol, and after seven days I got some wounds in my vagina and it’s very painful. Which cream can I use to treat this?

Best,
Sore

Dear Sore,

Stop using the podophyllin straight away – that’s the most important thing. Podophyllin (podosol) is a powerful, caustic wart treatment that’s quite capable of burning and ulcerating normal skin, which is what’s happened to you, and it’s especially risky used inside the vagina.

It’s only meant to be applied to external warts, in small amounts, by a clinician, and washed off after a few hours; left on, or used internally, it damages healthy tissue and causes painful chemical burns like the wounds you now have.

So first, stop, and gently rinse the area to make sure none remains on your skin.

While the wounds heal, keep it simple: a plain, gentle barrier ointment on the vulva (outside) only – nothing medicated, and nothing inside the vagina – plus plain-water washing, loose cotton, and the warm-water pour while you pee to stop the sting.

But because these are chemical burns, they’re internal, and they’re very painful, please see a doctor or a sexual health clinic promptly rather than managing this alone: they can check how deep the damage goes, treat the pain and any infection, and – importantly – sort out your warts properly.

Genital warts inside the vagina shouldn’t be self-treated with podophyllin at all; a clinician has safer, more effective options and can treat internal warts directly. You’ll heal from this, but get it looked at so it’s done safely.

Warmest regards,
Aunt Vadge

This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please see a clinician about the wounds and the warts.