HPV and Men: What You Need to Know

The Human Papilloma Virus, or HPV, is a very common topic today for women, but there are a lot of concerns about HPV and men, as well. There are risks for men, just as there are for women. You’ll find important information below as to these risks and what you can do to lower your chances of contracting this virus.

What Exactly Is HPV?

HPV is actually a group of more than 100 viruses. It lives in the body’s epithelial cells. Some 60 strains can cause warts on the body, such as on the hands and feet. The other 40 strains are sexually transmitted. Some of strains cause genital warts in both men and women and cervical cancer in women. There is no cure for HPV. However, it often clears up on its own. A vaccine is available for young women to prevent cervical cancer. Unfortunately, it’s not known at this time if this vaccine will help lower the risk of contracting genital warts, as well.

Health Risks for Men 

The combination of HPV and men usually results in genital warts. It’s estimated that over fifty percent of all people who are sexually active in the United States will contract this virus at some point in their lives. While it may go away on its own, you can be infected with it and pass it on to another person without even realizing that you have it. Many strains of this virus can increase the risks of certain cancers in men; however, these are relatively rare cases. Genital warts are much more common, affecting over 1% of the male population at any given time.

Testing for HPV and Men

There is no routine test for HPV in men for the strains that cause cancer. However, the doctor will examine the genital area to see if any genital warts are present. If not immediately visible, the doctor may use a vinegar solution for the warts that are not raised. This solution will turn a whitish color on the warts, making them easy to see for treatment.

Treatment of HPV and Men

The treatment of HPV in men is limited to the treatment of genital warts. There are several options available, such as laser removal, cryotherapy, and some prescription creams and lotions. It’s important to note that these warts can and do return after removal. Multiple treatments may be necessary for some men.

Controlling the Spread of HPV

For the sexually transmitted strains of HPV, it may be spread through oral, vaginal, and anal sex. Condoms are not an adequate form of protection against spreading this virus to your partner. Abstinence is the only completely effective means of preventing the spread of HPV. However, your physician can advise you of ways to help keep your partner safe and lower the risks of your partner contracting HPV.

In Conclusion 

HPV and men is very common, but there is not much publicity on this combination. It’s quite easy to diagnosis and there are treatment options available. The best course of action is to speak with your physician about this virus and the implications for men.

HPV and Men Tip #1:

There are some over-the-counter creams and lotions available for treating genital warts. However, you should remember that these treatments do not work overnight. It can take up to three months to see any results.

HPV and Men Tip #2:

It’s important not to use a traditional means of wart removal on genital warts. These treatments are too strong for the sensitive area of the genitals and can result in significant damage to this area.

HPV and Men Tip #3:

Some of the latest developments report a vaccine in the works for men for HPV. However, it still maybe some time before it’s available.