HPV Screening for Men Without Symptoms: What You Need to Know

HPV screening for males without symptoms of genital warts?

I would like to ask the doctor, I had contact with sex workers seven times last year, with the last encounter on October 23.
Three months later, I was tested for HIV and syphilis, both of which were negative.
Recently, I am worried that my previous encounters with sex workers might lead to contracting genital warts (I had unprotected oral sex for less than a minute on April 17 last year, but I used condoms for all subsequent encounters).
I am hesitating to pay out of pocket for the HPV vaccine because it is expensive, and I want to get tested for HPV first before making a decision.
After all, I now have a girlfriend, and I am concerned that even if I do not have symptoms of genital warts, I might still transmit the virus to her during sexual activity.

I would like to ask the doctor if a male without symptoms of genital warts can still get tested for HPV.
What testing methods are available? Can large hospitals offer testing through public funding or for free? Do you think it is safe for me to engage in sexual activity with my girlfriend now, given that I do not have symptoms of genital warts? (I will use condoms throughout.)

Fan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/04

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology

Male HPV testing typically involves a physical examination and blood tests, which can only indicate whether there has been a past infection.
Additionally, a scraping of skin cells can be performed to check for the presence of HPV DNA.
Vaccination is still an option and can reduce the risk of infection from certain types of HPV.

Reply Date: 2019/04/04

More Info

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a significant concern for both men and women, and it is essential to understand the implications of HPV infection, screening, and prevention strategies. While much of the focus has been on women due to the link between HPV and cervical cancer, men are also at risk for HPV-related diseases, including genital warts and certain types of cancers, such as anal and oropharyngeal cancers.

Understanding HPV Screening for Men
1. HPV Screening in Men: Currently, there is no standardized HPV screening test for men like there is for women (Pap smear). The absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of the virus. In men, HPV often does not produce noticeable symptoms, making it challenging to determine if one is infected. The most common method for assessing HPV in men is through a physical examination, where a healthcare provider may look for visible signs of genital warts or lesions. In some cases, a sample may be taken from the genital area to test for HPV DNA, but this is not routinely done.

2. Testing Options: If you are concerned about HPV, you can discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of HPV DNA testing, which involves taking a sample from the skin or mucous membranes. However, this is not a common practice and may not be covered by insurance. Unfortunately, there are no blood tests available to detect HPV in men.

3. Vaccination: The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing the most common types of HPV that cause genital warts and cancers. If you have not been vaccinated, it is advisable to consider getting the vaccine, even if you have had previous sexual encounters. The vaccine can still provide protection against types of HPV you may not have been exposed to yet.

Concerns About Transmission
1. Risk of Transmission: Even if you do not have visible symptoms, it is still possible to transmit HPV to your partner. Using condoms can reduce the risk of transmission but does not eliminate it entirely, as HPV can be present on areas not covered by a condom.

2. Engaging in Sexual Activity: If you have no visible symptoms of HPV or genital warts, and you are practicing safe sex (using condoms), the risk of transmitting HPV to your girlfriend is lower, but not zero. It is essential to have open communication with your partner about sexual health and any concerns you may have.

3. Timing for Testing: If you are considering HPV testing, it is generally recommended to wait at least three months after potential exposure before testing. This allows enough time for the virus to be detectable if present.

Conclusion
In summary, while there is no routine HPV screening for men, awareness and preventive measures are crucial. If you have concerns about HPV, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider who can guide you on the appropriate steps to take, including vaccination and safe sexual practices. Regular check-ups and open communication with your partner can help manage any risks associated with HPV. Remember that while HPV can be concerning, most infections resolve on their own without causing any health issues.

Similar Q&A

Understanding HPV Testing and STI Screening After Oral Sex

Hello, doctor. Two years ago, I had unprotected sexual intercourse and oral sex with my ex-girlfriend. As of today, I have no symptoms (no foreign bodies and normal urination). However, since I recently started dating a new girlfriend, I decided to undergo a sexually transmitted ...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1. No. 2. The HPV test itself is only for reference and cannot provide definitive results. 3. If an individual is very concerned, they may choose to get tested. 4. There should be sterility, and the chance of infection is extremely low. Wishing you good health.

Understanding HPV Infection in Men: Concerns and Next Steps

Hello, doctor. I am a 30-year-old heterosexual male. I am concerned about HPV infection because I have previously engaged in sexual activities where a woman performed analingus on me. Two months ago, I visited a clinic and underwent an HPV DNA test conducted by a urologist. They ...

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology
Hello, I tend to agree with the first statement, but in medicine, nothing is ever 100%. Even with an HPV type 56 infection, you cannot determine whether it is a past or recent infection. There are many types of HPV, and the claim that 90% of infections are cleared by reliable imm...

Understanding HPV Screening and Prevention for Men: Key Insights

Dear Director Huang, I would like to explain my experience with gynecological outpatient visits. a. In 2019 and 2020, I underwent Pap smear tests, and the results were negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy, with findings indicating reactive changes: inflammation, r...

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. HPV may not necessarily be present at that time; even if HPV is present, regular Pap smears are sufficient. 2. It is possible, but the chances are very low. 3. The same local sampling applies. 4. After receiving the vaccine, maintaining local hygiene and having regular Pap sme...

Understanding HPV Incubation Period and Testing for Men in Taiwan

Thank you, doctor. I am the one who asked the question a few days ago about the risk of infection. So, does the doctor mean that since I haven't shown any symptoms for almost two years, the likelihood of infection is very low? I only had one instance of risky behavior, and i...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Ashi: Hello, it is indeed rare to have an infection that has not recurred for two years. Note: In cases like HIV or syphilis, it may take more than two years, so testing is necessary. As for HPV testing, the National Health Insurance Administration's coverage depends on whet...