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Human Papilloma Virus HPV (Warts)

Description

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the virus that can cause warts on the dick, arse or surrounding areas. HPV is very common with more than 75% of sexually active people getting the infection usually between the ages of
18-25. Only about 10% of people who get HPV infection get warts. The rest usually don’t’ know they have it.

Transmission

Warts are passed on by any skin to skin contact with an infected person.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms include small bumpy warts around the dick, balls and arse or discomfort when going to the toilet if the inside of the arse is infected but they can also be painless. There may be no symptoms at all. If symptoms are present they will generally appear 2 to 3 months after being infected but it may take much longer. Outbreaks of warts can then occur periodically.

Test

A physical examination of the affected area can detect warts.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for genital or anal warts but a doctor, or health care worker, can remove the warts by freezing, burning, using laser or by applying liquid wart paints or creams. Warts can recur and treatment sometimes requires several visits.

If You’re HIV Positive

Outbreaks of warts can be more severe and harder to treat in HIV positive men. Some types of genital wart virus have been linked to a greater risk of anal cancer. This risk might be even greater for people with HIV.

Prevention

Condoms can reduce the risk of transmission but do not always cover the infected area. The warts may be present on the balls or arse area. A highly effective vaccine is available (although not free of charge) for young men aged 9-15. For this vaccine to be effective it needs to be given before exposure to the virus – which means before having sex. Talk to your doctor for further information.

View example (Warning: graphic images)

This page last updated 23 July 2008