Male Genital Warts

Genital warts, often referred to as venereal warts, affect not only women, but men as well. Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), and are spread primarily by genital contact during sexual intercourse, although the virus can also be transmitted via oral sex. Over 65 percent of people who come into contact with HPV will acquire it, and the majority of those who do will become aware of it within three months.

How Do Males Genital Warts Look Like?

Male genital warts can manifest as small gray or flesh-colored bumps on the tip or shaft or the penis, between the penis and scrotum, on the scrotum, or in the anal region. These small bumps may appear by themselves, or can grow in larger clusters that have the resemblance of cauliflower. Itching and discomfort is reported in the genital and anal areas by sufferers. (Pictures of male genital warts here.)

Transmission of Male Genital Warts

Some men may be infected by HPV and experience no outbreak of warts, or may be infected for months or even years before the onset of outward symptoms. Because of this possible dormant period where HPV incubates in the body, infected men may unwittingly pass the virus on to other unsuspecting partners; this fact has made genital warts the leading sexually transmitted disease in the country.

HPV and genital warts are highly contagious. The best prevention method for transmission of genital warts is abstinence from sexual activity. Sexually active men should abstain from sex with multiple partners and remain in a monogamous relationship with someone whose sexual history they are confident about, and who is committed to monogamy.

Although condoms are a step towards prevention of both HPV and genital warts, they do not always cover the affected areas of the carrier and should, therefore, not be relied upon to guard against the disease. It is important to note, however, that a condom is better than no protection at all, and that condoms should be used every time you have sex, even if you think that the person is “disease-free”.

Risk factors for contracting HPV and genital warts include being a gay or bisexual man, having had a previous sexually transmitted disease of any kind, having more than one sexual partner, or having an immune system that is weakened from fighting HIV or AIDS.

Treatment of Genital Warts in Men

Although some warts may go away on their own, being treated by a medical professional is always the best idea. Because some HPV infections may be indicators for later HPV-related cancers, a physician’s advice is strongly suggested. In the case of discharge from the penis, seeking treatment as soon as possible is recommended highly.

Various medicines on the market that are very effective in suppressing HPV and treating outbreaks of genital warts. Prescriptions remedies such as Imiquimod, 5-fluorouracil cream, Podofilox, and Podophyllin are typically administered. For warts that are unresponsive to medication, treatment options include laser therapy, cryotherapy, cauterization, and surgical removal.

If males get genital warts, it is recommended to see a doctor to rule out any presence of abnormal cells that could lead to cancer. Additionally, if you experience any discharge from the penis, you should see your doctor. Over-the-counter homeopathic remedies for treating male genital warts at home have shown good success.