What it is
HPV is a group of viruses that can spread through sexual contact, even without symptoms. Some types cause warts and others are associated with certain cancers. Having HPV does not mean you have cancer. Symptoms may appear long after infection and cannot by themselves establish when transmission occurred or who transmitted it. [1]
Changes to have checked
Arrange an assessment for genital warts, lumps or sores. Warts vary in shape and size, and not every genital lesion is an HPV wart. [1] Bleeding, ulcerated or otherwise unusual lesions may need a biopsy. [2]
What assessment can clarify
An examination and medical history guide diagnosis and follow-up. There is no test that describes a person’s whole-body “HPV status”. HPV testing has specific uses, including cervical screening; it is not a general screening test for men. [1]
Treating lesions
Depending on their features and location, options may include prescribed topical treatments, freezing or removal, including laser treatment in selected cases. No option is best for every lesion. Treatment aims to address lesions and symptoms; removing a wart does not guarantee that the infection has cleared. Warts can return. [2] [3]
Prevention and follow-up
Vaccination prevents new infections with certain HPV types; it does not treat an existing infection. Discuss your vaccination history and the recommendations that apply in Mexico for your age and circumstances. [4]
Condoms reduce risk but do not cover all skin that can transmit HPV. If you have a cervix, vaccination does not replace the screening recommended for you. [1] [5]
Prepare for the conversation
Bring your vaccination record if available, previous results and details of treatments you have used. Note when lesions appeared, how they have changed and what concerns you want to discuss.
- Does this look like a wart, or does it need another test?
- What would the proposed treatment address, and what discomfort could it cause?
- What follow-up do I need if it clears or returns?
- What should we discuss about vaccination and sexual health?
The specialist discusses this topic
Watch Dr. Hegel’s conversation on Sanando Dudas, published by Telever. The video is in Spanish.