HPV Virus: More Dangerous Than You Think – A Risk for Both Men and Women
Many people may have heard of the HPV virus (Human Papillomavirus), one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). While often linked to cervical cancer in women, HPV is not just a women’s health issue—men are also at risk. The virus can cause several diseases, affecting the genital area and anus in both men and women.
So, how dangerous is HPV? Can the infection go away on its own? How effective is the HPV vaccine in preventing it? And are the risks the same for men and women? Let’s explore the key facts you need to know.
1. What is HPV, and where does it come from?
2. Causes of HPV infection and warning signs
4. What to Do If You Test Positive for HPV
5. How to prevent HPV infection
1. What is HPV, and Where Does It Come From?
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a group of viruses with more than 100 strains. Among them, types 16 and 18 are considered the most dangerous, as they are strongly linked to cancer.
HPV spreads easily, primarily through sexual contact. While many assume HPV is only a concern for women because of its connection to cervical cancer, both men and women can contract HPV, and it can lead to various health problems.
Currently, there is no cure that eliminates HPV completely, but vaccination is an effective way to prevent infection.
2. Causes of HPV Infection and Symptoms to Watch For
HPV is mainly transmitted through sexual activity or direct skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The virus can enter the body through cuts, scrapes, or tiny tears in the skin.
HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer in women, but it can also lead to:
- Anal cancer
- Genital warts
- Penile cancer
- Other cancers in the genital or anal area
⚠️ Studies suggest that 80–90% of sexually active individuals will contract HPV at least once in their lifetime. Pregnant women with HPV may also pass the virus to their baby during childbirth.
Common Symptoms of HPV Infection:
Most HPV infections show no obvious symptoms, as the body can often clear the virus naturally. However, when symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Common warts – Small bumps on the skin, usually on hands, fingers, or elbows.
- Flat warts – Slightly raised, darker-colored, smooth growths. Found anywhere on the body; often on the legs in women and the beard area in men.
- Genital warts (Condyloma Acuminata) – Flesh-colored growths resembling cauliflower around the genitals or anus. They may itch, but they are usually not painful.
- Plantar warts – Hard lumps on the soles of the feet, heels, or balls of the feet, often painful when walking.
Other possible symptoms include:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge (foul-smelling or unusual in color)
- Irregular bleeding (such as after sex or between periods)
- Pain or discomfort in the genital area
3. How Men Are at Risk of HPV
HPV infection is not limited to women; men are equally at risk. The virus can spread through direct sexual contact, including anal, oral, and genital sex with an infected partner.
In men, HPV can cause:
- Cancers – Anal cancer, penile cancer, oral and throat cancers
- Genital warts – Flesh-like growths around the penis, scrotum, or anus
🚨 The risk is higher in men who have sex with men (MSM), particularly through anal intercourse. The strains that cause cancers in men are often the same as those linked to cervical cancer in women.
Can HPV Go Away on Its Own?
Currently, there is no medical treatment that eliminates HPV immediately. In many cases, the body’s immune system can naturally clear the infection within one to two years.
However, if the infection is caused by high-risk HPV strains and is left untreated, it can lead to cell changes that may develop into cancer over time.
HPV Infection: Can You Still Have Sex?
Since HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, engaging in sexual activity carries a risk of infection. Even if you have only one partner, the risk still exists, especially if your partner is already infected. That’s why safe sex practices are essential. Here are effective ways to reduce your risk of contracting HPV:
- Stick to one partner – limits exposure to infection.
- Use condoms every time – lowers the risk of HPV transmission by up to 90%.
- Delayed sexual debut – having sex at a younger age increases the likelihood of HPV infection.
- Avoid anal sex – raises the risk of developing anal cancer.
Avoid oral sex – linked to a higher risk of oral and throat cancers.
4. What to Do If You Test Positive for HPV
HPV infection is a major concern because it can lead to cervical cancer. But don’t panic—today, there are ways to manage it. Here’s what to do next if you test positive for HPV:
- Consult a doctor – the first and most important step. Your doctor will provide guidance, run diagnostic tests, and determine the right treatment.
- Regular cervical cancer screening – ongoing monitoring helps detect abnormal cell changes early, when treatment is most effective.
- Symptom-based treatment – if you develop conditions such as genital warts, treatment may involve medication, surgery, or laser therapy.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, eating a nutritious diet, getting enough rest, and avoiding smoking.
- Practice safe sex – use condoms consistently to prevent spreading HPV to others.
5. How to Prevent HPV Infection
HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer and other reproductive health diseases. Prevention is key to long-term health and protection. Effective prevention methods include:
- HPV vaccination – the best protection, ideally given before the first sexual experience. HPV vaccines prevent multiple high-risk strains that cause cervical cancer.
- Safe sex practices – always use condoms, limit the number of sexual partners, and avoid high-risk behaviors such as anal sex.
- Regular health checkups are essential for detecting cervical cell abnormalities early.
- Quit smoking – tobacco use increases cervical cancer risk.
- Maintain proper hygiene – keep the genital area clean and healthy.
Because HPV can cause several types of cancers and affects both men and women, it’s vital to protect yourself, stay healthy, and schedule annual checkups. For extra peace of mind, consider a comprehensive health insurance plan from Muang Thai Life Assurance.
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Important Notes
- Coverage depends on the chosen plan (40M, 75M, or 100M THB).
- Example: Age 50, Plan 20M THB, coverage area in Thailand, annual premium.
- Example: Plan 5M THB coverage per inpatient treatment episode.
- Example: Female age 34, Plan 5M THB with 30,000 THB deductible, annual premium.
- Example: Plan 3, 500,000 THB per inpatient treatment episode.
- Example: Female age 34, Plan 3, annual premium.
- Insurance benefits are subject to the terms stated in the policy.
- Riders must be purchased with a valid life insurance policy.
- Premiums are eligible for tax deduction under the Revenue Department rules.
- Underwriting is subject to the company’s approval criteria.
Sources (Accessed 06/09/2024):