HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection is a common sexually transmitted disease, which not only affects women’s health but also poses a potential threat to men. Although men may not show obvious symptoms immediately after being infected with HPV, long-term infection may lead to various health issues such as genital warts, anal cancer, and others. Therefore, men should also take active measures to prevent HPV infection.
1. Avoid Unsafe Sexual Practices
HPV is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, so avoiding unsafe sexual practices is the primary measure to prevent HPV infection. Men should reduce the number of sexual partners and avoid engaging in unprotected sexual activities with individuals infected with HPV. Correct usage of condoms during sexual intercourse can significantly reduce the risk of HPV transmission. While condoms may not completely prevent HPV transmission, they can considerably decrease the chances of infection.
2. Maintain Personal Hygiene
Good personal hygiene habits are crucial in preventing HPV infection. Men should bathe daily, keep their bodies clean, especially the genital area. Underwear should be changed frequently and exposed to sunlight for sterilization purposes. Additionally, men should avoid using public baths, bathtubs, towels, and other personal hygiene items that may harbor the HPV virus to minimize the risk of infection.
3. Get HPV Vaccination
HPV vaccination is an effective means to prevent HPV infection. Currently, there are bivalent, quadrivalent, and nonavalent HPV vaccines available in the market, some of which are suitable for both women and men. Getting vaccinated against HPV can stimulate the body to produce immune responses against specific types of HPV, thus preventing infection by those types. It is recommended that eligible men get vaccinated against HPV as early as possible to protect themselves from the HPV virus.
4. Regular Check-ups
Regular check-ups help in early detection and treatment of potential health issues, including HPV infection. Men should undergo comprehensive physical examinations at least once a year, especially those with a family history or other risk factors. Through regular check-ups, doctors can promptly identify HPV infections or other related diseases and take appropriate treatment measures.
5. Boost Immunity
Immunity is an essential defense line in resisting the invasion of pathogens in the body. Strengthening immunity helps in fending off pathogens like HPV. Men can enhance their body’s defense capability through balanced diet, moderate exercise, and sufficient rest. A balanced diet involves consuming enough proteins, vitamins, and minerals to meet the body’s basic requirements. Moderate exercise promotes blood circulation and metabolism, enhancing the body’s resistance. Adequate rest assists in body recovery and immune system enhancement.
6. Avoid Sharing Personal Hygiene Items
In addition to avoiding the use of public baths, bathtubs, and other items that may carry the HPV virus, men should refrain from sharing toothbrushes, towels, and other personal hygiene items with others. These items come in direct contact with skin mucosa during use, increasing the risk of HPV transmission. It is recommended that everyone has their own personal daily items to ensure hygiene and safety.
Men should take various measures to prevent HPV infection, including avoiding unsafe sexual practices, maintaining personal hygiene, getting HPV vaccination, undergoing regular check-ups, boosting immunity, and refraining from sharing personal hygiene items. By implementing these measures, men can significantly reduce the risk of HPV infection and safeguard their health. Additionally, they should maintain a positive and optimistic attitude, avoid excessive anxiety and stress to maintain both physical and mental well-being.
