You cannot get HPV from shaking hands or from inanimate objects such as toilet seats (except possibly shared sex toys). The virus does not spread through the air. Condoms do not protect you completely from HPV, but they may reduce the chance of transmission. [3] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
The most common location for genital warts in men is under the foreskin of an uncircumcised penis, or on the shaft of a circumcised penis. Warts can also appear on the testicles, groin, thighs, or around the anus. Less commonly, warts can appear inside the anus or urethra, causing bleeding or discomfort at the toilet. You do not need to have anal sex to get anal warts. [5] X Research source The warts can vary in number, shape (flat, raised, or cauliflower-like), color (skin-colored, red, pink, grey, or white), firmness; and symptoms (none, itchiness, or pain).
Bleeding, pain, or itching of the anus. Unusual discharge from the anus. Swollen lymph nodes (lumps you can feel) in the anal or groin area. Unusual bowel movements or a change in the shape of your stools.
An area of penis skin becoming thicker or changing color, usually on the tip or foreskin (if uncircumcised) A lump or sore on the penis, usually not painful A reddish, velvety rash Small, crusty bumps Flat, bluish-brown growths Smelly discharge under the foreskin Swelling at the end of the penis
A persistent sore throat or ear pain Difficulty swallowing, opening the mouth fully, or moving the tongue Unexplained weight loss Lump in the neck, mouth, or throat Hoarseness or voice changes that last more than two weeks
Men who have sex with men, especially those who receive anal sex Men with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, a recent organ transplant, or immunosuppressant medication Men with many sexual partners (of any sex), especially if condoms are not used Heavy use of tobacco, alcohol, hot yerba mate, or betel increase your risk of some HPV-linked cancers (especially in the mouth and throat). Uncircumcised men might be at higher risk, but the data is unclear. [11] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
All men 21 or younger (ideally at age 11 or 12 before sexual activity) All men who have sex with men at the age of 26 or younger All men with a compromised immune system age 26 or younger (including HIV positive men) Tell the provider about any severe allergies you have before getting the vaccine, especially to latex or yeast.
You can transmit HPV even if you don’t have symptoms, but the chances are higher while you have genital warts. Talk to your sexual partners about this risk, and cover the warts with condoms or other barriers if possible. Although the strains of HPV that cause genital warts do not cause cancer, you may have been exposed to more than one strain. You should still talk to your doctor if you have noticed any possible cancer signs or unexplained symptoms.
Not all doctors agree that a regular screening is necessary or helpful, but they should still educate you about the test and allow you to make your own decision. If your doctor does not offer this service or cannot tell you about it, seek a second opinion. If homosexuality is illegal in your country, you may be able to get treatment and health education resources from an international LGBT or HIV prevention organization.
Regularly examine your penis and genital area for any signs of warts and/or areas that look unusual on the penis. [15] X Research source
Your dentist can check for signs of mouth and throat cancer during a routine checkup. [17] X Trustworthy Source American Dental Association World’s largest dental professional organization and advocate for proper oral health Go to source If you are diagnosed with cancer, the treatment will depend on the severity and how early it was discovered. You may be able to remove early cancer with minor surgical procedures or local treatments such as laser removal or freezing. If the cancer has already spread, you may need radiation or chemotherapy. [18] X Trustworthy Source American Cancer Society Nonprofit devoted to promoting cancer research, education, and support Go to source