The human papillomavirus, commonly referred to as HPV or genital warts, affects both men and women. There are more than 40 different strains of HPV that affect the genital region. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease, and it is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact and rubbing. It may take from three weeks to six months to show symptoms after being exposed to a strain of HPV--if they appear at all.
Step 1
Visually inspect the penis and genital area for signs of warts. Look for warts on the scrotum, penis and rectal area. Warts are flat or raised in shape.
Step 2
Visit a medical professional to confirm the diagnosis. Be prepared to openly discuss your sexually history with the medical provider.
Step 3
Decide if warts should be removed. Warts are generally removed for aesthetic reasons; there is no harm in leaving them on the affected area. Some warts may disappear by themselves, while others will need to be removed by a doctor. Removal includes freezing the wart from the genital area.
Tips and Warnings
- A visual inspection is how HPV is diagnosed. There is no test to diagnose HPV in men. There is no pain associated with the warts. Not showing any symptoms is common among men who carry HPV. Women have a high rate of cervical cancer caused by HPV, but cancer is an extremely rare symptom of HPV for men.
