1. Be Aware That You May Not Develop Any Symptoms
HPV stands for human papillomavirus. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that affects nearly all adults who are or have been sexually active. At least 40 different types of HPV are thought to be in circulation. HPV infects the skin of the penis, anus, and the surrounding genital areas.
In most men, HPV causes no symptoms.
2. What You May See if HPV Causes Symptoms
Depending on the type of HPV with which you are infected, you may develop genital warts, cancer of the penis, or cancer of the anus. Be aware, though, that warts and cancer are uncommon in men with HPV. Only 1% of men have genital warts, and penile cancer affects only 1 in 100,000 American men. Anal cancer is similarly rare.
Genital warts begin within a few weeks after you get infected, and they can spring up on the penis, anus, testicles, groin area or upper thighs. You may notice one or a cluster of several warts, which sometimes look like cauliflower and can be flat or slightly elevated. They are not painful. It is important to distinguish genital warts from other similar looking but harmless conditions called Fordyce spots and pearly penile papules. If you have questions, ask your doctor for clarification. Some detailed photographs of warts, Fordyce spots, and penile papules are available at www.genitalwartsreport.com/genital-warts-pictures.html.
3. What You May See if HPV Causes More Serious Conditions
Penile and anal cancer, the very rare outcomes of some HPV infections, may have more subtle symptoms. Discomfort, pain, itching, bleeding, and unusual discharge can signal anal cancer, as well as several other less serious conditions. See a doctor promptly to get the right diagnosis. Do not guess.
Penile cancer is signaled by skin thickening or color changes. A bleeding sore, which may or may not be painful, is also a possible sign of penile cancer. Again, see your doctor right away for definitive testing.
