What is HPV?
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus that is passed on by sexual or close skin to skin contact. It is likely that most of us who have ever been sexually active have had HPV at some time in our life although we may not have known – We estimate around 80% of men and women will have HPV at some point.
HPV is not a single virus but a family of more than 100 types of HPV that affect the body. Approximately 40 types of HPV affect the genital area.
Most HPV infections go away on their own however some of the types can cause changes to cells in the cervix that can lead to cervical cancer. A few types of HPV cause genital warts that you can see but otherwise you cannot see HPV.
How is the virus spread?
Genital HPV is passed on through skin to skin sexual contact including vaginal, anal, oral and non-penetrative sex.
How is HPV diagnosed?
At present there is no reliable HPV test for men. HPV can be detected in those who have had an abnormal cervical screening test.
Is there any treatment?
There are no reliable treatments (such as antibiotics or antivirals) that have been proven to get rid of the virus. The virus disappears spontaneously in most men and women over time.
Should you practice safe sex (use condoms)?
Correct and consistent use of male or female condoms is a sensible precaution to reduce the risk of future infection as well as sexually transmitted infections. However, the virus might have been present for many years before its detection and even with condom use there are still areas of unprotected skin when two people are intimate so condoms may not offer full protection.
How will HPV affect your health?
Most men who have HPV (of any type) never develop any symptoms or health problems. Some types of HPV can cause genital warts. Other types can cause cancers of the penis, anus, or oropharynx (back of the throat including base of the tongue and tonsils). However, it is more likely that your body will fight HPV and not cause any cancer. The cancers caused by HPV are relatively rare and there are other more significant risk factors for them including smoking. If you have any concerns – Please speak to your GP.