4 ways the seminal microbiome may play a role in your risk of HPV.
What is HPV?
HPV is a common STI. There are many different types of HPV, and the majority of them do not seem to cause any health concerns.
However, some HPV types can lead to negative health implications – including cancer, reduced fertility, and warts.
On HPV Awareness Day, we’re shining a light on an often-overlooked, semen microbiome. While much of the conversation around HPV prevention focuses on women’s health, research is uncovering that men’s reproductive microbiome plays a major role in HPV transmission, persistence, and even clearance.
- Protection against HPV infection
- A healthy semen microbiome, has been linked to better reproductive and immune health.
- Certain beneficial bacteria may help regulate inflammation and immune responses, potentially reducing HPV persistence.
2. Dsybiosis (microbiome imbalance) increases HPV risk
- When harmful bacteria outnumber beneficial ones, it creates an environment where HPV thrives and persists, increasing the risk of transmission to partners.
- Studies suggest that dysbiosis in semen (an imbalance of microbes) is associated with higher HPV viral loads and a lower chance of natural clearance.
3. Inflammation & HPV persistence
- An imbalanced semen microbiome can lead to chronic inflammation in the male reproductive tract.
- Inflammation can weaken local immune defences, making it harder for the body to clear HPV naturally.
- This may also increase oxidative stress, which damages sperm and increases the risk of fertility issues.
4. Influence on the vaginal microbiome
- During unprotected sex, semen microbiota mix with vaginal microbiota, potentially disrupting its balance.
- If semen contains pathogenic or HPV-friendly bacteria, it could contribute to HPV persistence in female partners.
- This suggests that both partners’ microbiomes matter when it comes to HPV clearance and prevention.
How do I prevent HPV infection?
1.Get vaccinated
- This is so important and can protect against both high-risk and low-risk HPV infections. Please contact your GP if you have not yet had this.
2. Get tested
- Regular STI screening can be crucial in early detection.
3. Practise safe sex
- Using condoms (male or female) will reduce your likelihood of getting any STI, including HPV.
4.Optimise your microbiome
- A balanced microbiome can ‘clear out’ infections inc. HPV, and is a great way to protect yourself.
This HPV Awareness Day, take charge of your health!
HPV is common but preventable!
—therefore with the right knowledge and tools, you have the power to protect yourself.
A Lactobacillus-dominated microbiome supports HPV clearance, whereas dysbiosis fosters HPV persistence and progression.
HPV is not just a women’s issue. HPV prevention is a shared responsibility, so let’s break the stigma and empower men and women with knowledge!
