Genital Warts and HPV in Men   by Martin Work

in Health / Diseases and Conditions    (submitted 2011-04-13)

One of the side-effects of the human papillomavirus, or HPV is the development of genital warts. In fact for many men, the appearance of genital lesions is the first sign that they have a condition that needs to be treated for a sexually transmitted disease. However all occurrences of warts are not always visible to the naked eye. Lesions can be hidden in the anus or only visible if related with a solution, usually composed of vinegar based solution.

Where are the Warts Found, and What do Genital Warts Look Like?

Men with this virus may find lesions in a number of places. They can appear in genital areas such as on the tip of the penis or on the scrotum or shaft. They can also sometimes be found in the anus area. In fact, sometimes lesions are even found in areas other than the genital area; for example, the area in or around the mouth or in the throat. Genital warts are small and resemble cauliflower, they are also usually found in clusters. Lesions have a flesh-colored or pink appearance and can be mildly painful or uncomfortable. In some people the warts can bleed or itch.

Treatment

Even though genital warts are a symptom of the HPV virus, everyone infected with HPV does not have them. There are over 100 strains of the HPV virus and every type of HPV does not have as a symptom the appearance of warts. If you contract a form of HPV that has warts as a symptom, it can take weeks or even months after the infection for the warts to show up. If you discover that you have any strain of the HPV virus, it is advisable to seek medical treatment. Untreated, warts may go away on their own but they also may either increase in number or simply remain the same. According the Center for Disease Control genital warts do not become cancerous over time, the strains of HPV that are cancerous do not have genital warts as a symptom. Treatment may be a prescription for topical ointment or often is done by a doctor who will perform a laser treatment to remove the warts or an excision procedure.

About the Author

Martin is a healthcare professional. He believes it is important for everyone to be informed about HPV in men.