HPV in Males: Key Facts, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Introduction

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affecting both men and women. While often discussed in the context of cervical cancer in women, men are equally at risk. In fact, studies suggest that around 90% of men will get an HPV infection at some point in their lives.

HPV comes in over 200 types. Some are low-risk and may cause warts, while others are high-risk and can lead to cancers of the penis, anus, and throat (like the tonsils and base of the tongue).

What Is HPV?

HPV is a virus that infects the skin and mucous membranes — especially areas like the genitals, anus, and throat. It spreads primarily through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

There are two major categories:

• Low-risk HPV (e.g., types 6 & 11): Causes genital warts.

• High-risk HPV (e.g., types 16 & 18): Can lead to cancer.

Men and women can be infected with both types, but the infection often goes unnoticed in men because symptoms don’t always appear.

How Is HPV Transmitted?

HPV spreads through:

• Vaginal, oral, or anal sex

• Skin-to-skin contact (including hand-genital contact)

• Shared objects like underwear or sex toys

• From infected parents to a child in rare cases

Men who have sex with men (MSM), HIV-positive individuals, or those with multiple partners are at a higher risk.

Why HPV Is a Concern for Men

While HPV often clears on its own, in men it can:

• Cause genital warts

• Lead to penile, anal, and throat cancers

• Linger in the body due to a weaker immune response compared to women

• Be unknowingly passed to partners

There’s no regular HPV screening for men, unlike for women who have cervical cancer tests. This makes awareness even more important.

Risks & Complications

Though not always dangerous, HPV can lead to:

• Genital Warts: Small, flesh-colored or grey, painless bumps around the penis or anus.

• Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (AoRRP): Wart-like growths in the throat that cause voice changes or breathing issues.

• Cancers:

  • Penile Cancer

  • Anal Cancer

  • Throat Cancer (especially in the base of the tongue and tonsils)

HPV is found in 90% of anal cancers and over 50% of penile cancers in men.

Symptoms of HPV in Men

HPV often has no symptoms. When they do appear, they might include:

• Warts on or around the penis, anus, or groin

• Hoarseness or difficulty breathing (if warts develop in the throat)

• Cancer-related signs:

  • Lumps, pain, or discharge around the genitals or anus

  • Persistent sore throat or neck lump (throat cancer)

These symptoms may take time to develop, which is why many men don’t realize they’re infected.

HPV Testing for Men

There is no standard HPV screening test for men. However, doctors may recommend testing in:

• Men with visible symptoms

• Men whose partners are HPV-positive

• High-risk groups (MSM, HIV-positive)

Testing options include:

• Visual exam for warts

• Anal Pap smear (for men who have anal sex or are HIV-positive)

• HPV DNA tests using swabs from the penis, anus, or throat

Treatment Options

There’s no cure for HPV itself, but symptoms and related conditions can be treated:

• Topical creams like imiquimod for warts

• Surgical removal or cryotherapy (freezing) for persistent growths

• Radiation or chemotherapy for HPV-related cancers

• Immunotherapy drugs (e.g., nivolumab, pembrolizumab) for advanced cases

In most cases, the body clears the virus naturally, especially in younger individuals.

HPV Vaccine for Men

The HPV vaccine can prevent most HPV-related cancers and warts. It’s safe and effective for males too — not just females.

• Who should get vaccinated?

  • Boys and men aged 9 to 26 (most effective when given early)

  • Men up to age 45, depending on risk factors

• Dosing schedule:

  • Ages 9–14: 2 doses (6–12 months apart)

  • Ages 15–45: 3 doses (at 0, 2, and 6 months)

In India, the Gardasil-9 vaccine protects against 9 major types of HPV, including the high-risk strains.

Prevention Tips for Men

To protect yourself and others from HPV:

1. Get vaccinated early

2. Use condoms consistently (though not 100% effective)

3. Limit sexual partners and avoid unprotected sex

4. Avoid smoking (it lowers immunity and raises cancer risk)

5. Encourage partner screening — especially for cervical cancer

6. Regular check-ups if you're at high risk (HIV-positive, MSM)

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a doctor if:

• You notice new lumps, warts, or changes in the genital or anal area

• You experience pain, bleeding, or discomfort

• Your partner tests positive for HPV

• You’re unsure about the vaccine or testing options

Early detection and action can prevent complications.

Conclusion

HPV is a serious yet often overlooked issue in men. Although symptoms may not always show, the risks — especially of cancer — are real.

Vaccination, awareness, and regular health checks are key to protecting yourself and your partner. Talk to your doctor about the HPV vaccine, especially if you're in a high-risk group or planning to be sexually active.