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Signs & Symptoms of HPV in Men & Women

HPV is an acronym for human papillomavirus. You can contract an HPV infection from more than 100 types of these viruses. According to the Mayo Clinic, these infections affect about 20 million Americans. Because there are so many variations of HPV, the signs and symptoms of infection vary. All HPV infections can cause a growth, such as a wart or a lesion. The type of wart is distinguishable based on appearance and location on the body.

  1. Cervical Cancer

    • The Mayo Clinic notes that HPV infections are responsible for nearly all cervical cancer cases. However, genital HPV infections do not often result in cancer, even the higher-risk types of HPV. In its early stages, cervical cancer usually doesn't exhibit any symptoms or signs. Early detection of cervical cancer via regular screenings is crucial. When cervical cancer has progressed to its advanced stages, you may experience pelvic pain, especially during intercourse. The Mayo Clinic notes that you may also notice vaginal bleeding following intercourse, after menopause or between menstrual periods. Additionally, you may experience a watery or heavy vaginal discharge that may have an unpleasant odor.

    Genital Warts

    • Genital warts are a possible symptom of an HPV infection. According to the Mayo Clinic, these warts are usually caused by HPV infection types 6 and 11. Those two types are not commonly linked to cancer. Genital warts are benign, or non-cancerous. They generally do not result in pain or discomfort. They may appear to be very small protrusions, a bump similar to cauliflower or a flat lesion. Men may notice genital warts on the penis, scrotum or anus. Women may have genital warts on the vulva, in the vagina or the cervix, or near the anus.

    Other Warts

    • HPV infections are linked to other warts, besides genital warts. Plantar warts are usually found on the heels or balls of the feet. Unlike genital warts, plantar warts can cause pain and discomfort. Those warts are hard and nonmalignant. The symptoms of a common wart due to HPV infection are rough skin growths, frequently appearing on the hands or fingers. Flat warts are distinguishable from common warts because they appear as flat-topped lesions that are somewhat darker than your skin color. According to the Mayo Clinic (see reference 1), these often appear on the knees, wrists, elbows, hands, face and neck.

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