HPV (papillomavirus): genital warts, anal cancer and the vaccine up to 26

What is HPV?

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are a large family of viruses. Some cause harmless warts, others, called “high-risk”, can cause cancers in the long run. HPV is one of the most common STIs: most sexually active people meet it at some point, usually without knowing, and infection clears on its own in most cases.

How is it transmitted?

Through skin-to-skin and mucosal contact during sex: anal sex, oral sex, genital contact, fingers, toys. Condoms reduce the risk but don’t cover the whole area: they don’t fully protect.

Genital warts

Sexosafe describes them as genital warts (nicknamed “cockscombs” in French) on the penis, around or inside the anus. According to WHO they are small rough lumps, sometimes painful, itchy or bleeding. They aren’t dangerous but they are contagious and often come back.

Treatment: they are removed locally (cream, freezing, laser, minor surgery) by a doctor, dermatologist or proctologist. Don’t try to remove them yourself.

HPV and cancer in men

According to WHO, HPV caused about 70,000 cancers in men worldwide in 2019: cancers of the anus, the oropharynx (throat, tonsils, base of the tongue) and the penis. Men who have sex with men, and even more so those living with HIV, are more exposed to anal cancer.

Signs that should prompt a visit: persistent anal bleeding, pain, a lump, itching that won’t go away, a gland or sore throat that lasts. Some services offer anal cancer screening to the most exposed people, especially HIV-positive men: ask your doctor.

The vaccine: the earlier the better

• According to Sexosafe, HPV vaccination is recommended for men who have sex with men up to age 26 in France, and covered by health insurance.
• It is also recommended for all teenagers, girls and boys, from age 11.
• WHO specifies that the vaccine contains no live virus: it cannot cause infection. It prevents but does not treat an existing infection, hence the benefit of getting it early.

Even if you’ve already had partners, the vaccine protects against HPV types you haven’t met yet. It’s available at CeGIDD clinics or on prescription.

In short

1. HPV is very common and often silent.
2. Warts can be treated, cancers can be prevented.
3. Get vaccinated up to 26, and see a doctor about any lesion or persistent anal bleeding.