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HPV in males: What you need to know?

10 Mar 2025

Protect Yourself from HPV: Get Vaccinated at PULSE Clinic

What is HPV, and Why Should You Care?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that can affect both men and women. Some strains of HPV cause genital warts, while others can lead to serious health issues like penile, anal, and throat cancers. The good news? HPV-related diseases are largely preventable with the HPV vaccine.

 

How HPV Affects Men

While many men with HPV show no symptoms, some develop genital warts—small or large bumps that may be flat, raised, or cauliflower-shaped. These warts can appear on the:

  • Penis
  • Testicles
  • Anus
  • Groin and thighs
  • Mouth and throat

HPV itself is not cancer, but certain high-risk strains (like HPV 16 and 18) can cause changes in the body that may lead to cancer over time. These changes often develop slowly, meaning someone may not be diagnosed with cancer until years after contracting the virus.


HPV-Related Cancer Symptoms in Men:

  • Anal cancer: Bleeding, pain, itching, or lumps near the anus
  • Penile cancer: Skin thickening, tissue changes, sores, or growths on the penis
  • Throat cancer: Chronic sore throat, persistent coughing, trouble swallowing, voice changes, or lumps in the neck

How Does HPV Spread?

HPV is transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. You can get HPV even if your partner shows no visible symptoms. Risk factors include:

  • Having multiple sexual partners
  • Being young (most infections occur in teens and young adults)
  • Being uncircumcised
  • Having weakened skin barriers

Can HPV Be Treated?

There is no cure for HPV itself, but treatment is available for its symptoms. Genital warts can be managed with prescription medications or removed through procedures like cryotherapy (freezing the warts off). However, removing warts does not eliminate the virus or prevent transmission.

The Best Protection: HPV Vaccine

The most effective way to prevent HPV and its related complications is through vaccination. The HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and recommended for both men and women.

Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?

  • Boys and girls aged 11–12 (two doses)
  • People aged 15–45 (three doses if not vaccinated earlier)
  • Individuals with weakened immune systems may need additional doses

The U.S. FDA has approved Gardasil 9, which protects against HPV types 6 and 11 (responsible for 90% of genital warts) and types 16 and 18 (linked to most HPV-related cancers). Since the introduction of the HPV vaccine, HPV infections in young adults have significantly decreased.


Why Choose PULSE Clinic for Your HPV Vaccine?

PULSE Clinic provides expert sexual health care in a discreet, professional, and LGBTQIA+-friendly environment. Our trained healthcare providers will guide you through the vaccination process and answer any questions you have about HPV prevention.


Benefits of Getting Vaccinated at PULSE Clinic:

Fast and hassle-free appointments
Expert medical professionals specializing in sexual health
Confidential and inclusive care for all genders and orientations
Protection against HPV-related cancers and genital warts


Take Charge of Your Health Today

Don't wait until it's too late—protect yourself from HPV by getting vaccinated at PULSE Clinic. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier future!

📍 Visit PULSE Clinic today! 📅 Book your HPV vaccination now!