The human papillomavirus, HPV, is the most common sexually transmitted infection. There are more than 40 different kinds of HPV, and most sexually active people will acquire at least one of these strains of HPV over the course of their lives, according to the World Health Organization. Although believed to be just as common in men as women, the nature of the infection and treatment and prevention options are different for men.
Symptoms
Most men who become infected with HPV will never experience any symptoms. But a few strains of HPV can lead to genital warts, anal cancer or penile cancer. Genital warts can vary in appearance from small, flesh-colored bumps to large clusters of warts that resemble cauliflower. They can be on the tip and shaft of the penis, near the anus or on the scrotum, according to the Mayo Clinic. Itching and discomfort usually accompany genital warts. Certain strains of HPV can also cause abnormal changes in body cells that can result in anal or penile cancer. Symptoms of anal cancer include anal bleeding, pain, discharge and changes in bowel movements. Symptoms of penile cancer include changes in the skin color or texture of the penis or a growth on the penis, according to the World Health Organization.
Transmission
HPV is transmitted through sexual intercourse. Although condoms provide some protection, they do not fully prevent the spread of HPV from partner to partner. The risk of contracting HPV increases with an increased number of sexual partners.
Screening
There are no tests for determining if a man has been infected with HPV. The Centers for Disease Control recommends checking yourself regularly for any abnormalities on the penis, scrotum or anus. Consult your doctor if you see anything unusual.
Treatment
There is no treatment for the virus itself. In most people with healthy immune systems, the virus often goes away on its own within a couple of years, according to Lab Tests Online. There are treatment options for the conditions that result from an HPV infection. Genital warts are treated by medication or removal. Even with treatment, warts can return, so often men decide against treatment. Without treatment, warts may disappear on their own, stay the same or grow. Untreated warts will not cause any further health problems, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Anal and penile cancer are treated with combinations of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
Partners
Because condoms do not provide full protection from the virus, it is not uncommon for a sexual partner to acquire the virus, according to the American Social Health Association. Once HPV is acquired, the immune system works to suppress the infection. Once the infection is suppressed, the immune system will remember that strain of HPV, and you are unlikely to contract the same strain of HPV from your partner a second time.
