Can men be tested for HPV?

There is no routine HPV test for men on the NHS. However, private HPV DNA testing is available and can detect high-risk strains. Men who have sex with men may be offered anal screening.

Does HPV go away on its own?

Yes, approximately 90% of HPV infections are cleared by the immune system within 2 years. However, some high-risk strains can persist and may cause cell changes that need monitoring or treatment.

Should I get the HPV vaccine as an adult?

The HPV vaccine is most effective before sexual debut but can still provide benefit for adults. Speak to our clinicians about whether vaccination is appropriate for you.

Is HPV the same as genital warts?

No. HPV is a family of over 100 virus strains. Only certain low-risk strains (mainly types 6 and 11) cause genital warts. High-risk strains (mainly types 16 and 18) can cause cancer but do not cause warts.

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HPV

Medically ReviewedOften Asymptomatic

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is extremely common and most sexually active people will contract it at some point. Most infections clear on their own within 1–2 years. High-risk strains can be detected with cervical screening or specific HPV DNA tests. Vaccination provides excellent protection against the most dangerous strains.

HPV: Key Facts

Often Asymptomatic

Incubation Period: 1–20 months (warts); years for cell changes
Test Window: No routine test for men; cervical screening for women
Results: 5–7 working days
Treatment: Treatment for warts/cell changes; virus clears naturally

Book HPV Test – £190

Results within 24 hours • Same-day treatment available

Symptoms of HPV

Common Symptoms

Most people have no symptoms at all
Genital warts (fleshy, painless growths)
Cell changes detected only through screening

Symptoms in Men

Often no symptoms
Genital or anal warts (low-risk strains)
Warts in the throat (rare)

Symptoms in Women

Often no symptoms
Genital warts (low-risk strains)
Abnormal cervical screening results (high-risk strains)

How is HPV Transmitted?

Skin-to-skin genital contact
Vaginal, anal, or oral sex
Can transmit without penetration
Condoms reduce but do not eliminate risk

Prevention

HPV vaccination (offered to all children aged 12–13 in the UK)
Condom use (partial protection)
Regular cervical screening
Limiting number of sexual partners

Complications if Untreated

Cervical cancer (high-risk strains 16 and 18)
Anal cancer
Throat and mouth cancers
Penile cancer (rare)
Genital warts (low-risk strains 6 and 11)

Frequently Asked Questions

Medically Reviewed

Dr Mohammad Bakhtiar

MD, PhD, LRCP, MSc, DHMSA

Sexual Health

GMC: 4694470•Last reviewed: January 2026

All medical content is reviewed by qualified healthcare professionals registered with the General Medical Council (GMC).

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HPV: Key Facts

Often Asymptomatic

Incubation Period: 1–20 months (warts); years for cell changes
Test Window: No routine test for men; cervical screening for women
Results: 5–7 working days
Treatment: Treatment for warts/cell changes; virus clears naturally

Book HPV Test – £190

Results within 24 hours • Same-day treatment available