That could have been the breakthrough: Two years ago Human papillomavirus (HPV) in all the world's tabloids. Unfortunately, the fame was short-lived. Why unfortunately? Have you ever heard of genital warts?
In 2013, Michael Douglas surprised the assembled Hollywood press with a speculation. The actor attributed his cancer to oral sex. The ulcer in his throat was caused by HPV, a group of viruses that can infect women's labia, among other things.
HPV stands for human papillomaviruses. Some of them are extremely widespread. Experts assume that almost every sexually active person will be infected at least once in their lifetime. No wonder, because the viruses are transmitted in pretty much everything that is fun. Whether you lick, finger, suck, rim or use the same sex toy on each other - the papilloma family loves it. It's particularly easy for the beasts if you leave the rubber off when fucking.
Only a few types of papilloma are dangerous. And these few reproduce foolishly unnoticed at first. After years, however, they can cause cancer in the mouth, throat or larynx - as was the case with Michael Douglas. Also on and in the arse can degenerate if the mucous membrane is affected: papilloma viruses are involved in around one in five cases of bowel cancer.
The infection is often only discovered because the dangerous papillomas occur together with more harmless relatives. These viruses cause the so-called genital warts or condylomas. So if you discover one or more tiny bumps on your cock, go to the doctor. Urologists and dermatologists, for example, are responsible. However, you can also visit your family doctor first.
A proctologist, i.e. a specialist for the human anus, is a good option if you discover lumps on the rosette. If you flush your bowels before sex, take the opportunity to feel inside for warts. Any change in your mucous membrane is reason enough to visit a proctological practice.
Condylomas are treated either with an ointment or surgically. An ointment is usually sufficient if you don't have very many warts. The doctor will use a knife if the viruses have already formed colonies. Or they may use modern laser technology. In either case, the procedure irritates or injures the mucous membrane. So sex is over for the time being. How long depends on the healing process.
Further information - also on other sexually transmitted infections
