Many people don’t realise how common Human Papillomavirus (HPV) really is — yet it affects most adults at some stage in their lives. In England alone, cervical cancer causes around 685 deaths each year, and about 99.8% of those cases are linked to HPV, according to NHS England. Recognising the early signs of an HPV infection can make a real difference in protecting your health and preventing complications caused by high-risk strains.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of HPV?
HPV symptoms can vary depending on the strain of the virus and the part of the body affected. In many people, HPV shows no signs at all, which is why regular screening and vaccination remain key.
Genital Warts
Genital warts are among the most visible signs of HPV. They appear as small, raised, or flat growths around the genital or anal area. These warts can be painless but may cause itching or mild discomfort. While they can look worrying, they are usually caused by low-risk HPV types that do not lead to cancer.
Abnormal Cervical Cell Changes
In women, high-risk HPV can cause cell changes in the cervix, which may be detected during routine cervical screening (smear tests). These changes rarely cause symptoms but are an early warning sign that the virus is active. Regular screening helps spot these changes before they develop into cervical cancer.
Persistent Sore Throat or Mouth Lesions
Certain strains of HPV can infect the mouth and throat, leading to small white patches, ulcers, or a persistent sore throat. This type of infection, often linked to oral HPV, can sometimes progress to more serious conditions if left unchecked.
Anal or Rectal Discomfort
HPV infection in the anal area can cause itching, bleeding, or small lumps that may feel similar to haemorrhoids. These signs should always be checked by an expert to rule out more serious causes.
Unexplained Lumps or Swelling
In rare cases, long-term HPV infection can cause growths or lumps in the neck, tongue, or throat area, particularly in people with high-risk HPV detected through testing. These symptoms may indicate deeper tissue involvement and should never be ignored.
How to Know if You Have HPV
Because most HPV infections are symptom-free, testing is the only reliable way to confirm infection. In the UK, HPV testing is automatically included in the NHS Cervical Screening Programme for women aged 25 to 64. However, if you are not eligible for NHS screening or would prefer faster, discreet results, private HPV testing is a better option.
Men, in particular, do not have a routine NHS test but can easily access private testing to check for high-risk HPV strains and receive personalised advice from our pharmacists.
Key indicators to watch for
- Warts or unusual skin growths around the genitals or anus
- Abnormal bleeding, discharge, or discomfort
- Recurrent sore throat or mouth lesions
- Results showing high-risk HPV detected on screening
If you notice any of these signs, our pharmacists can guide you on next steps and available HPV treatment options.
How Is HPV Treated?
There is no single cure for HPV, but most infections clear naturally within two years as your immune system fights the virus. When treatment is needed, it usually targets the symptoms rather than the virus itself.
Common HPV treatment options
- Topical creams or cryotherapy for genital warts
- Minor procedures to remove abnormal cervical cells
- Supportive care for oral or anal lesions
Our pharmacists can advise you on appropriate management and refer you for further medical assessment if needed.
Can the HPV Vaccine Help Prevent Infection?
Yes. The HPV vaccine in the UK offers strong protection against both low-risk and high-risk strains of the virus. It significantly reduces the risk of developing genital warts, cervical cancer, and several other HPV-related cancers.
While the NHS provides the vaccine mainly to teenagers aged 12 to 13, adults who missed it at school can still receive it privately. Pharmacies such as Touchwood Pharmacy offer convenient private HPV vaccination for men and women up to age 45.
When Should You Seek Expert Advice About HPV?
If you have symptoms of HPV, such as genital warts, persistent throat lesions, or a high-risk HPV result, it is best to speak with a qualified pharmacist. Early action helps manage symptoms, prevent transmission, and ensure you receive the right follow-up care.
Book your appointment with our experts at Touchwood Pharmacy for HPV vaccination, private testing, and personalised advice to protect your long-term health.
FAQs
Can HPV cause symptoms even if I feel healthy?
Yes. Many people with HPV show no symptoms at all but can still pass the virus on. Some may later notice warts or abnormal cell changes detected during screening. This is why regular cervical screening and HPV vaccination are so important, even if you feel perfectly healthy.
What are the early signs of HPV in women?
Early signs of HPV in women may include small growths or warts around the genital area, abnormal bleeding, or cell changes found during cervical screening. Most infections, however, remain symptom-free and are only detected through routine testing.
Does a high-risk HPV result mean I have cancer?
No. A high-risk HPV detected result does not mean you have cancer. It simply means you carry a strain linked to a higher risk of developing cancer if left untreated. Regular follow-up and monitoring help detect and remove any abnormal cells before they become serious.
How long does it take for HPV symptoms to appear?
HPV symptoms can take weeks, months, or even years to show after infection. In some people, the virus stays dormant and never causes visible signs. Because of this, it’s possible to have HPV without realising it or knowing when it was contracted.
Can men get tested for HPV in the UK?
There is currently no routine HPV test for men on the NHS. However, men can still carry and transmit the virus. Private testing and vaccination are available at selected clinics and pharmacies, including Touchwood Pharmacy.
Where can I get the HPV vaccine privately in the UK?
If you missed your vaccine at school or are over the NHS age limit, you can receive the HPV vaccine privately. Touchwood Pharmacy offers convenient appointments for both men and women, helping protect against high-risk HPV strains and related cancers.
