Human papillomavirus (HPV) can infect males and females and may lead to different symptoms. After males are infected with HPV, most individuals may not have noticeable symptoms, or the symptoms may be very mild and hard to detect. However, certain types of HPV may lead to the following symptoms:
Genital warts: This is the most common symptom of HPV in males. Genital warts are typically small, smooth growths that may appear as single warts or clustered. They can be flesh-colored, gray, or brown and usually appear on the penis, scrotum, around the anus, or inner thighs.
Anal warts: If HPV infection occurs in the anal area, it may develop into anal warts.
Throat warts (oral papillomas): Some types of HPV can cause throat warts, which usually do not cause symptoms but may sometimes result in hoarseness or difficulty swallowing.
Here are some other HPV-related symptoms that males may experience:
Painless inflammation: There may be slight red spots or inflammation but no significant pain.
Discomfort during urination: If warts appear at the urinary opening, discomfort or pain may be felt during urination.
Abnormal discharge: Secretions from the warts may occur, sometimes with an odor.
Bleeding: Warts may bleed after friction or injury.
It is important to note that even without symptoms, HPV-infected males can still transmit the virus to sexual partners. Additionally, while most HPV infections are temporary and can be cleared naturally by the immune system, certain types of HPV may persist and increase the risk of certain cancers such as anal, penile, and oral cancers.
If there are any suspicious symptoms or a risk of sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is advisable to seek prompt consultation with healthcare professionals for examination and treatment. There is currently no specific treatment for HPV, but vaccination can help prevent certain types of HPV infections.
