Testing for HPV/ genital warts on men

[lifeishort]

From the research I've done, it seems there is no good testing for the HPV virus in men. Is this true? I have heard of Herpes simplex 2 and genital warts being related, and there is a test, although inaccurate, for this? What do they do for this test, and is there any good test for genital warts?

I recently met a girl and I know i have to tell her straight up that I may be at risk of having it, since I found out my ex has it. I was hoping I could get tested and be able to tell her whether I do for sure have it.

[Brandye]

Well yes and no. It is much easier to test in women but there are some tests in men. If there are active lesions, they can be biopsied and examined microscopally. Vinegar, or other acetic acid solutions, will make the lesions more visible. There are also blood tests that may or may not help with a definitive diagnosis.

Go to your doctor or a sexual disease clinic or women's health clinic and tell them you are at risk and want the full battery of testing. This will also give you an opportunity to discuss possibilities with someone very knowledgeable. In the meantime, keep in mind that condoms do help but are less effective with herpes than with other STD's. Lesions not covered by the condom can still transmit the disease.

Many hospitals and clinics have herpes support groups. They are a good place to get the straight information you need. Also a good place to find dates!

[Newchic]

Just a little heads up......HPV is NOT herpes. HPV can have genital warts, but in no way is this herpes. I know this for a fact. HPV is the number 1 leading cause of cancer in women, you should let your girlfriend know regardless so she can be tested. http://www.thehpvtest.com/ . Very good website! Both of you need to get tested ASAP!

[lifeishort]

I know my ex had genital warts, HPV, which I know is not herpes. I'm just really embarassed by this. It makes me look like I'm a dirty guy yet she was the only person I've had sex with. I think I will go to my university's clinic and see if I can get tested. I'm sure they can since it's at a college and everyone sleeps with everyone.

One more thing, is it true that like any other virus, the body will eventually overcome this virus but may take a few years?

[Brandye]

With a University clinic available, that is a wise choice. They will not be surprised by anything. Newchic, there are about 100 HPVs; there are four that are really bad actors. The good news is that a new vaccine had been developed and all women should be talking to their doctors about when it will be available.

[Newchic]

I have HPV and was told it was herpes by a nurse which freaked me out. I had to go to another Dr. to get a copo and it was explained more in detail at that point. It is very scary and the copo is less than desirable. I have never had a wart and my partener of the last 2 years has not either. I was told it can go away on it's own, it could be the bad HPV, or I can continue to have bad paps and this show up and have to do copo's forever. I have heard about the vaccine, would this be effective if you already have it? BTW, do not feel bad about yourself, it could be much worse. I know exactly how you feel.

[Brandye]

The vaccine is not yet available but, as I understand it, it will be preventive not curative. Until testing is completed in the next year, it may turn out to be both.

[Newchic]

Thanks Brandye!!

[jemmini6]

don't feel dirty about having HPV...3 out 4 sexually active people will have it in their lifetime. it is the most common std. the only effect on men would be if they have the wart producing kind, but it can be treated. women can get warts and if they never have a pap, certain strains can cause cervical cancer. however, most kinds just go away on their own, or, if you catch it early and have your annual pap, you can have it treated to prevent cancer.