HPV and Possible Symptoms: Is It Genital Warts?

Q: HPV and Possible Symptoms: Is It Genital Warts?

Hello： The cauliflower should not grow that quickly, but it is still important to monitor if it increases in size. <br>Wishing you good health.

Cauliflower problem

Hello doctor, I received the first dose of the nine-valent HPV vaccine on June 24, and on July 1, I had unprotected oral sex.
That day, I noticed a small bump, about 1mm, near the coronal sulcus of the glans, which is quite inconspicuous.
I have not engaged in sexual activity for about two years prior to this.
Could this possibly be genital warts? I read online that symptoms of genital warts typically do not appear so quickly.
I would like your clarification on this matter.
Thank you.

Y, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/08

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: The cauliflower should not grow that quickly, but it is still important to monitor if it increases in size.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/07/08

More Info

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that can lead to various health issues, including genital warts and certain types of cancer. The fact that you received the first dose of the 9-valent HPV vaccine on June 24 and then experienced a small bump near the coronal ridge of the glans penis on July 1 raises some important points for discussion.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that the 9-valent HPV vaccine protects against nine types of HPV, including the high-risk types that are associated with cancers and the low-risk types that cause genital warts (also known as condylomata acuminata). However, the vaccine does not provide immediate protection; it typically takes time for the immune response to develop after vaccination. Therefore, if you were exposed to HPV before receiving the vaccine, it is still possible for you to develop symptoms related to that exposure.

The small bump you described, measuring about 1mm, could potentially be a genital wart, but it is also possible that it is something benign, such as a pearly penile papule or a sebaceous cyst. Genital warts usually appear as small, flesh-colored or gray swellings and can vary in size and shape. They may not necessarily appear immediately after exposure; the incubation period for HPV can range from weeks to months, and in some cases, even years. Therefore, it is unlikely that the bump you noticed just a few days after exposure is directly related to that encounter.

Given that you have not engaged in sexual activity for about two years prior to this incident, it is also important to consider that the bump may not be related to recent sexual activity at all. If you have concerns about the bump, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend further testing, such as a biopsy, if necessary, to determine the nature of the bump.

In terms of symptoms, many individuals with HPV do not exhibit any symptoms, which is why regular screenings and vaccinations are crucial. If you are experiencing any discomfort, changes in the appearance of the bump, or other unusual symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly.

In conclusion, while the bump you noticed could potentially be a genital wart, it is important to consider other possibilities and consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. The HPV vaccine is an important preventive measure, but it does not provide immediate protection against existing infections. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are key to managing your sexual health effectively.

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Hello: This facility cannot provide a diagnosis without examination. However, if there are indeed warts in the genital area, and there has been unsafe sexual behavior or oral sex, it is recommended to seek examination at a major hospital. Wishing you good health.