In today’s era of intimate freedom and changing relationship dynamics, conversations about intimate health are more important than ever.

Although casual relationships are becoming increasingly normalized, the risks associated with them, particularly human papillomavirus (HPV), are often underestimated.

This article explains how having multiple partners can increase the risk of contracting HPV, what the virus is, its importance to men’s health, and the steps to take to protect yourself. Since HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide, this topic is not only relevant but crucial.

What is HPV and why should men care about it?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 200 related viruses, at least 40 of which are transmitted through direct intimate contact. Some strains are harmless and clear up on their own, but others can cause serious health problems.

In women, HPV is widely known for its link to cervical cancer. But men are not immune to its consequences either: the virus can cause genital warts and, in some cases, lead to cancer of the throat, anus, and penis.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly all sexually active people will contract HPV at some point in their lives. In men with multiple partners, the risk increases significantly due to greater exposure to the virus.

How is HPV transmitted?

HPV is primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Unlike infections that require vaginal transmission, HPV can be transmitted even   without penetration  . Therefore, condoms, while helpful, do not offer complete protection.