Today, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection, especially among sexually active young people. We are witnessing this rapid increase in our country as a private practice physician, and unfortunately, this situation has reached a worrying level.
The disease, which is seen and spread in both men and women with increasing polygamy, can lead to various health problems. The symptoms of HPV infection in men are usually not noticed or may be mild. However, in some cases, it can cause serious health problems. This article describes the symptoms and possible results of HPV infection in men.
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Symptoms of HPV Infection in Men
HPV infection is transmitted through skin contact. Mostly, during sexual intercourse, the viruses present in the person are transmitted to the partner through skin-mucosa contact. Viruses transmitted to the partner by contact remain there for a certain period of time if the immune system is weak. During this period, it often does not show symptoms and can be cleaned by the body without any treatment. However, in some cases, the following symptoms may occur:
Genital Warts
The most common symptom and clinical picture of HPV is wart formation. These warts;
o They can occur on the penis, scrotum, groin area, around the anus or on the thighs.
o They can appear as skin-colored or pinkish swellings.
o They can be a single wart or clustered.
o They can cause itching or discomfort, but they are usually painless.
o If these warts are plucked or bleed during shaving, the viruses are spread to the surrounding tissue with blood and numerous warts form.
Lesions in the Mouth and Throat
HPV, transmitted through oral sex, can cause wart-like lesions in the mouth and throat. If these lesions are not treated, they can grow over the years and increase the risk of oropharyngeal cancer.
Anal Warts and Disorders
HPV can cause warts in the anal area, especially in homosexuals, and in some cases, they can grow inside the anus and cause itching, bleeding or discomfort.
Cancer Risks
HPV infection in men is associated with some types of cancer. These include;
o Penile cancer: The incidence is increasing especially in uncircumcised men. Especially types with a high risk of cancer can cause erosive wounds and penile cancer over time if left untreated under the foreskin of the penis for a long time. I have encountered 2 penile cancers in my professional life so far. Unfortunately, these patients were not circumcised either.
o Anus cancer
o Mouth and throat cancers (oropharyngeal cancer) are included. These types of cancer may not usually show symptoms until advanced stages, but in advanced stages, symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, chronic sore throat, non-healing sores in the mouth or bleeding in the anus area may be seen.
Psychosocial Effects
Many men experience sexual reluctance and feelings of guilt after HPV infection. It also causes serious loss of trust between couples and leads to relationships that end in separation.
Protection from HPV Infection The most effective ways to protect against HPV infection are as follows:
- Vaccination: HPV vaccination can protect against warts and some types of cancer caused by the virus in men. The vaccine is recommended for all individuals between the ages of 9-45.
- Safe Sex: Using condoms can reduce the risk of HPV infection but cannot prevent it completely.
- Regular Checkups: Regular doctor checkups, especially for individuals at risk, can ensure early diagnosis of possible complications.
Conclusion HPV infection can usually progress without symptoms in men, but in some cases it can lead to serious health problems such as genital warts or cancer. Therefore, it is of great importance to pay attention to protective measures and to evaluate the HPV vaccine. Consulting a health professional when any symptoms are noticed plays a critical role in preventing possible complications.