HPV in Men: Why Testing Still Doesn’t Exist, And What You Can Do

Why This Article Exists (And Who It’s For)

Maybe you’re a gay man who’s heard about HPV from hookup app warnings. Maybe you’re nonbinary and just had a partner ask, “When were you last tested for HPV?” and your stomach dropped. Or maybe you’re a trans man who doesn’t have a cervix and got brushed off by a clinic saying, “Then you’re not at risk.”

This article is for all of you, for the people HPV conversations forget. It’s for those who are navigating sex after silence, shame, or dysphoria. It’s for people who don’t see themselves in pink cervical cancer awareness ads but know they deserve the same protection. And it’s especially for those who’ve tried to take charge of their health only to be told, “There’s no test for you.”

Here, we’ll walk through what HPV is, why testing remains gendered, what symptoms you can watch for, and what at-home or clinical options exist for MSM and nonbinary folks. No fluff. No fear tactics. Just grounded, actionable info.

HPV 101: Why the Most Common STD Is Still the Most Confusing

Human papillomavirus isn’t just one virus, it’s a group of over 150 strains. Some cause nothing at all and clear on their own. Others lead to genital warts. A few, known as high-risk strains, can cause cancers: anal, penile, throat, and cervical. But here’s where it gets complicated: most people who carry HPV never show symptoms and don’t know they have it.

The virus spreads through skin-to-skin contact, vaginal, anal, and oral sex, but also grinding, sharing toys, or any genital contact. Condoms reduce risk but don’t eliminate it. That means you can do “everything right” and still get HPV. And while the virus can affect all genders, nearly all public health messaging, and nearly all testing, focuses on people with cervixes. Why?

Because the only FDA-approved screening test for HPV is a cervical swab, used during a pap smear. That’s it. No throat swab. No anal swab. No penile swab. No urine test. So if you don’t have a cervix, you’re invisible to the system. But that doesn’t mean you’re not at risk.

Why Isn’t There an HPV Test for Men?

Let’s break it down. HPV tests in people with cervixes look for DNA from high-risk HPV strains. They’re done routinely because cervical cells can be easily sampled and early detection prevents cancer. In men, however, the virus tends to live on the surface of the penis, scrotum, anus, or throat, and sampling these areas is trickier, less standardized, and currently not cleared by the FDA for screening purposes.

But that doesn’t mean testing isn’t possible. In fact, studies show that anal and throat swabs can detect high-risk HPV DNA in men, especially MSM. Clinics that serve LGBTQ+ communities sometimes offer anal HPV swabs as part of cancer screening, particularly for people living with HIV. But it’s not routine. It’s not FDA-approved. And it’s definitely not widely accessible.

In short: it’s not that we can’t test men for HPV. It’s that we haven’t made it a public health priority.

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What HPV Can Look Like (And When It’s Invisible)

Imagine this: Nate, 27, notices a tiny raised bump on the base of his penis. It’s painless, soft, and doesn’t itch. He wonders if it’s just a hair follicle. Then he remembers his last partner mentioned having HPV “years ago.” Nate spirals. Is it a wart? Should he get it checked? But when he searches for “what genital warts look like,” the images are horrifying, and none look like his bump.

This is the reality for many. HPV symptoms can be subtle or absent. Genital warts can be flesh-colored, flat or raised, smooth or cauliflower-shaped. Some appear around the anus, even in people who haven’t had anal sex. Oral HPV can cause sore throats, lesions, or, more often, nothing at all. High-risk strains usually cause no visible changes until years later when cells start mutating.

That’s why screening matters. But if you don’t have access to tests, how do you know what to look for?

Table 1. Common HPV presentation sites and current testing options for men and nonbinary people.

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Do At-Home HPV Tests for Men Exist?

Here’s the frustrating answer: barely. Most HPV home kits on the market are designed for cervix swabbing. If you look closely, they’ll say “for people with a vagina” or require a pap-style sample. But for men, MSM, and nonbinary folks? There’s no fully approved, over-the-counter at-home HPV test in the U.S. yet. Still, a few newer services are starting to offer anal or throat swabs that can be self-collected and mailed in, especially for high-risk groups.

Let’s compare what’s out there:

Table 2. HPV test types and current availability for people without a cervix.

So what can you do if you want answers but don’t qualify for a “normal” test? In the next sections, we’ll walk through how to talk to your provider, how to screen for symptoms, and what home testing options might be worth watching.

When the Doctor Says “You Don’t Need to Worry”

Ali, 33, walked into a sexual health clinic for routine STD screening. They were nonbinary, sexually active with men, and had recently noticed a wart-like bump near their anus. The provider ran tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV, but when Ali asked about HPV, the nurse shrugged: “You don’t have a cervix, so it’s not really something we test for.”

Moments like this happen every day. Not out of cruelty, but because providers are trained in systems that still frame HPV as a “women’s health issue.” It’s not. In fact, men who have sex with men are disproportionately affected by anal HPV and related cancers. According to the CDC, MSM are 20 to 40 times more likely than heterosexual men to develop anal cancer. But few providers routinely discuss screening options unless prompted, especially if you don’t fit the mold of a typical patient.

So what can you say when you feel dismissed? Try: “I understand there isn’t a standard test for HPV in people without a cervix, but I’m in a high-risk group. Can we talk about symptom checks, visual exams, or any swab testing you offer?”

Sometimes that sentence is enough to shift the conversation. Sometimes it’s not. But the more we name this gap, the more likely it is to close.

Oral HPV: The Cancer Risk You’re Not Hearing About

Let’s talk about your mouth. Most people associate HPV with genitals, but oral HPV, especially high-risk types, can lead to throat cancer over time. It’s passed through oral sex, deep kissing, or even rimming. And again, it often shows no signs at all.

Jay, 41, didn’t think much of the occasional sore throat until a friend mentioned that their partner was being screened for oropharyngeal cancer linked to HPV. Jay had never heard of that. He'd never been tested. But he had years of unprotected oral sex behind him. Suddenly, a sore throat wasn’t just a sore throat, it was a question mark.

Right now, there’s no widely available test for oral HPV outside of research studies or certain specialist offices. But some ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors may screen for persistent lesions or suggest follow-up if symptoms stick around.

To be clear: not every sore throat is cancer. Not even close. But for people with repeated exposure and high-risk partners, it’s worth knowing this risk exists, especially because it’s not often discussed in routine care.

What About Anal Cancer Screening for MSM?

If there’s one bright spot in this murky landscape, it’s anal cancer screening. Some LGBTQ+ clinics and HIV care centers now offer anal Pap smears or high-resolution anoscopy for patients at elevated risk. These tests look for abnormal cells that could become cancerous, just like a cervical Pap does.

This is especially important for:

• Men who have sex with men (especially if HIV-positive)
• Trans women with a history of receptive anal sex
• Nonbinary people engaging in anal sex with multiple partners

Still, these tests aren’t routine, and insurance coverage varies. Many people have to ask directly for them, or find specialty clinics that understand why it matters. If you’re worried, here’s a script you can use with your doctor:

“I’ve had receptive anal sex, and I’m concerned about my risk for anal cancer due to HPV. Can we discuss an anal Pap or anoscopy?”

Is it awkward? Yes. But it could also be lifesaving.

HPV Vaccination: It’s Not Just for Teens Anymore

One of the most powerful tools we have against HPV isn’t testing, it’s prevention. The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) protects against nine strains, including the most common cancer-causing types and the ones linked to genital warts. Originally marketed to cisgender teen girls, it’s now approved for everyone up to age 45, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

Here’s the deal: if you haven’t been vaccinated, and you’re under 45, talk to your provider. Even if you’ve already been exposed to one strain, the vaccine can still protect you from others. And yes, it’s absolutely recommended for:

• MSM and gay men of all ages
• Trans men and nonbinary people
• Anyone with new or multiple partners

The vaccine doesn’t treat existing infections, but it prevents future ones. Think of it like an immunity booster for your sex life, one that could lower your cancer risk significantly. Some clinics even offer it for free under sexual health grants.

And no, it’s not “too late.” Even if you’re 30 and have had multiple partners, it’s still worth asking about.

What You Can Do If You’re Worried Right Now

If you’ve read this far, you might be in that weird limbo space, no clear symptoms, but your brain won’t shut up. You want to know what went down. This is a map of a story that will help you feel less stuck:

1. Self-check (but don’t obsess): Gently inspect the skin of your genitals, anus, and mouth. Use a mirror. Look for warts, patches, discoloration, or unusual bumps. Keep in mind: not everything is HPV. But tracking changes is helpful.

2. Ask your provider directly: Don’t wait for them to bring it up. Say you’re concerned about HPV even without a cervix. Request a visual exam, throat check, or anal swab if they’re available.

3. Look into clinics that cater to specific groups: LGBTQ+ health centers are more likely to offer anal Pap tests or know why screening should be open to everyone. Use the LGBTQ+ Health Directory or your local STI services to find clinics.

4. Get the HPV vaccine if you can: It protects against several strains and is recommended for people up to age 45. The vaccine protects against types of HPV that you may not have been exposed to, even if you have had it.

5. Monitor and retest as needed: If you’ve had genital warts in the past, or symptoms that come and go, keep a photo journal and bring it to a provider. If you’re living with HIV or immunocompromised, schedule routine screenings for cancer-related strains where possible.

6. Talk to partners (when safe): HPV is extremely common, and disclosure can be tricky. But a simple, “Hey, just so you know, HPV doesn’t always get tested, but I’m keeping an eye on things,” can go a long way.

If your head’s still spinning, peace of mind is one test away. While at-home HPV testing for men is still limited, discreet STD test kits are available for other infections, and staying on top of those is equally important.

Your Privacy Matters, Especially When You're Already Anxious

It’s one thing to worry about an infection. It’s another to panic that your mail carrier, roommate, or nosy neighbor might know what you’re testing for. If you’ve ever hovered over the “checkout” button on a test kit site, second-guessing whether the box will be discreet, you're not alone.

That anxiety is real. Especially for nonbinary folks or MSM living in conservative areas, privacy isn’t just about comfort, it’s about safety. That’s why many at-home STD services now ship in plain packaging, often with no company name and generic return addresses. Some even let you track the kit in real-time or redirect it to a pickup location.

Results are typically delivered through a secure online portal, and you decide who sees them. No physical mail. No voicemail surprises. You don’t need to register your gender identity unless you choose to. And in some cases, you can use telehealth support without ever setting foot in a clinic.

So if you’ve avoided testing because of who you live with, or because you've been outed before, know that there are now quieter, safer ways to get answers. And getting tested is never something to feel ashamed of. It’s a form of care. Period.

Retesting After a Diagnosis or a Scare

Let’s say you’ve had genital warts in the past. Or maybe your provider said, “This looks like HPV, but we’ll monitor it.” You’re left wondering: am I still contagious? Do I retest? When? And how?

Here’s what the research tells us: most low-risk HPV infections clear within 1 to 2 years. But that doesn’t mean the virus is entirely gone, it may just be dormant. That’s why symptoms can return. That’s why your partner might get warts even if yours disappeared last year.

But because there's no official clearance test for men, retesting usually involves repeat visual exams, watching for recurrence, and communicating openly with providers. If you’ve had high-risk strains or cellular changes (especially around the anus or mouth), follow-up care may involve specialist monitoring every 6 to 12 months.

Rico, 38, tested positive for anal HPV at a community clinic through a research program. He was told to come back for a high-resolution anoscopy in 6 months. The first visit scared him. The second gave him clarity. No cancerous changes were found, and his provider walked him through preventive steps moving forward. He felt, finally, in control.

If your provider can’t or won’t help, LGBTQ+ clinics often have research connections or low-cost referral networks that can get you where you need to go.

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Partner Talk: HPV, Disclosure, and Emotional Landmines

HPV disclosure is a minefield. Not because it’s shameful, because it’s misunderstood. You don’t test positive the same way you do for chlamydia or HIV. You may never be diagnosed at all. So how do you talk about something invisible, untreatable (in many cases), and inevitable?

The short answer: keep it real. HPV is wildly common. Nearly everyone gets it at some point. Instead of framing it as a confession, try framing it as context. “Just so you know, there’s no standard test for HPV in people like me, but I stay on top of screenings when I can. If you’re vaccinated, that helps both of us.”

When disclosure feels unsafe or unwanted, focus on what you can do: use protection, avoid contact during outbreaks, and keep track of your own symptoms. Some people choose to share past HPV diagnoses when they enter committed relationships. Others don’t. There’s no single right path, but if you do disclose, do it on your terms, with facts in hand and shame left behind.

And if you’re ever on the receiving end of disclosure? Say this: “Thanks for telling me. I appreciate your honesty.” That’s it. HPV doesn’t make someone dirty. Silence and stigma do.

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You Deserve Accurate, Gender-Inclusive Testing

Every time a provider says, “HPV isn’t something we test for in men,” a door quietly closes. But that door can open again with the right information, the right advocacy, and the right tools. The truth is: HPV isn’t a women’s-only issue. It never was. The system just hasn’t caught up to everyone else’s bodies.

If you’re waiting for a test that includes you, don’t wait alone. Ask your provider about anal Pap testing if you’re MSM or have HIV. Get the HPV vaccine if you’re eligible. Check your body and your throat and your gut when something feels off. Keep looking for evolving home test options, and push for research that includes more than just people with cervixes.

And while you’re at it, stay on top of the other STDs that do have at-home tests available. You can order a discreet combo STD test kit here, no labels, no awkward clinic visits, just your answers, your privacy, your power.

FAQs

1. Can I have HPV even if I’ve never had symptoms?

Yes, and that’s the kicker. Most people with HPV don’t get symptoms, ever. You could’ve had it for years and never known. That’s part of what makes it so tricky and frustrating. It’s not about being reckless; it’s about how invisible this virus can be.

2. Is there a way for me to test for HPV at home if I don’t have a cervix?

Kind of, but it’s complicated. There’s no FDA-approved at-home HPV test for men or nonbinary folks right now. A few mail-in services are starting to offer anal swabs, especially for MSM, but they’re not widely available yet. So for now, most of what’s out there either requires a cervix, or isn’t quite ready for prime time.

3. What if I found a bump but I’m not sure if it’s a wart?

Totally valid. Not every bump is HPV, and not every wart looks “scary.” Some are flat, smooth, or skin-colored and easy to miss. If you’re staring at it in the mirror thinking, “Is that new?”, that alone is reason to get it looked at. A provider can do a visual exam and even biopsy it if needed. Better to check than spiral.

4. I’m already sexually active. Is it even worth getting the HPV vaccine?

Yes, yes, yes. The vaccine protects against multiple strains, and unless you’ve had all of them (unlikely), you still benefit. Even if you’ve had warts before, the vaccine can guard you from the high-risk cancer-causing types. If you’re under 45, it’s still on the table. Ask for it.

5. Can I really get HPV from oral sex?

Yup. And not just from giving, it can go both ways. Oral HPV can live in the throat and spread during oral sex or even deep kissing. Most cases go away on their own, but some stay and can cause throat cancer later on. I'm not trying to scare you; I'm just being honest.

6. Why won’t my doctor test me for HPV?

Honestly? Because they might not be trained to. HPV testing is still centered around people with cervixes. Unless you’re at a queer-friendly or STI-focused clinic, your provider might not even know anal swabs or throat screenings are possible. You didn't do anything wrong, and you aren't overreacting by asking.

7. What if I’m nonbinary or trans and don’t feel safe at a clinic?

Then your safety comes first. Look for LGBTQ+ clinics or providers who advertise gender-affirming care. Some organizations let you book anonymously or offer telehealth consults before you step through the door. You shouldn’t have to explain your body just to get basic healthcare, but until the system catches up, finding the right provider makes a big difference.

8. Can I give HPV to someone even if I’ve never had warts?

Yes. Warts don’t have to show up for you to be contagious. HPV can be passed through skin contact alone, genitals, mouth, anus, without any visible signs. That’s why talking about it (and vaccinating when possible) is way more effective than waiting for symptoms.

9. How often should I get checked if I’ve had HPV before?

There’s no universal rule, which sucks. If you’ve had genital warts or tested positive for high-risk HPV in the past, follow-ups every 6–12 months are often recommended. Especially if you’re HIV-positive or immunocompromised. Keep your provider looped in, and trust your gut if something feels off.

10. What do I even say to a partner about this?

Start with honesty, not shame. Something like: “HPV’s super common, and most people don’t even know they’ve had it. I just want us both to be safe.” If they freak out, that’s about their fear, not your worth. You’re allowed to protect your health and still have great sex, and real relationships can handle that convo.

You Deserve Answers, Not Assumptions

Let’s be blunt: if you don’t have a cervix, the medical system has probably made you feel like you don’t exist when it comes to HPV. But you do exist. Your risks are real. Your body deserves care. And your questions deserve answers.

You shouldn’t have to decode decades of gendered health systems to understand your own status. And you shouldn’t have to choose between silence and safety. This guide isn’t just about HPV, it’s about shifting the conversation to include everyone.

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Sources

1. CDC – Genital HPV Infection – Fact Sheet

2. Planned Parenthood – What Is HPV?

3. CDC – HPV and Cancer: Basic Facts

4. CDC – HPV in Men: What You Should Know

5. National Cancer Institute – How HPV Causes Cancer

6. CDC – Cancers Linked to HPV

7. NIH – Human Papillomavirus Infection in Men

8. MDPI – HPV and Male Cancer: Risks and Prevention

About the Author

Dr. F. David, MD is a board-certified infectious disease specialist focused on STI prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. He blends clinical precision with a no-nonsense, sex-positive approach and is committed to expanding access for readers in both urban and off-grid settings.

Reviewed by: Dr. Marisa Tan, MPH | Last medically reviewed: December 2025

This article is for informational purposes and does not replace medical advice.