the Risk of HPV Transmission and Recurrence

The possibility of recurrent infection with cauliflower?

I am a male, and a year and a half ago, I had my first boyfriend.
I have only been intimate with this guy.
After dating for a year, I started noticing blood when having bowel movements.
I thought it was hemorrhoids, but after seeing a gastroenterologist, I was told it was genital warts.
I know he had a complicated relationship history before we got together, but when I took him to see the same doctor, he showed no symptoms.
The doctor mentioned that he might have antibodies.

My first set of questions is: (1) Is it possible for him to transmit the virus to me without showing any symptoms? (2) Since he is a foreigner, could it be that he was vaccinated as a child, which means he carries the virus but does not develop symptoms, yet can still transmit it to me? He does not believe he transmitted it to me because he has no symptoms.
Although I used school restrooms before contracting the virus, I really don't know how I got it.
Currently, after two rounds of cryotherapy, there have been no recurrences, and I have already received the first dose of the quadrivalent vaccine.
My second question is: (3) The vaccine seems to be effective only for those who are uninfected, so I can only protect myself against other types of HPV.
Can we still be intimate? Will I be at risk of being reinfected with the same virus after I recover? I hope the doctor can help answer these questions.
Thank you very much.

Ka Ka, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/08

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

1.
It is possible.

2.
It is possible.

3.
The chance of reinfection with the same strain of virus is lower, while the likelihood of infection with different strains of the virus is greater.

Reply Date: 2017/03/08

More Info

Understanding the risk of HPV transmission and recurrence is crucial for both health management and personal relationships. Based on your situation, let's address your questions systematically.

1. Transmission from Asymptomatic Partners: Yes, it is entirely possible for your partner to carry the HPV virus without showing any symptoms or lesions. Many individuals can be asymptomatic carriers of HPV, meaning they can transmit the virus to others without ever developing visible signs of infection themselves. This is particularly common with certain strains of HPV, including those that cause genital warts (like HPV 6 and 11) and those that are associated with higher cancer risks (like HPV 16 and 18). Your partner may have had the virus for some time, possibly from previous sexual encounters, and his immune system could have kept it in check, preventing any symptoms from manifesting.

2. Vaccination and Asymptomatic Carriers: It is also plausible that your partner received the HPV vaccine in his youth, which could provide immunity against certain strains of the virus. However, the vaccine does not eliminate existing infections; it only protects against new infections from the types of HPV included in the vaccine. Therefore, if he was already infected with a strain that the vaccine does not cover, he could still transmit that strain to you. This means that while he may not exhibit symptoms, he could still be a source of transmission for the virus.

3. Post-Infection Vaccination and Sexual Activity: You are correct that the HPV vaccine is most effective for individuals who have not yet been exposed to the virus. Since you have already been diagnosed with HPV and have undergone treatment (such as electrosurgery), the vaccine will not treat your existing infection but can help protect you from other HPV types that you have not yet encountered. As for your sexual relationship, it is essential to communicate openly with your partner about your health status. While you can still engage in sexual activities, it is advisable to practice safe sex (using condoms) to reduce the risk of transmitting or re-infecting each other with HPV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

4. Recurrence and Reinfection: After treatment for HPV-related conditions, such as genital warts, there is a possibility of recurrence. This can happen if the virus remains dormant in the body and becomes active again, particularly if your immune system is compromised. Additionally, if your partner is still carrying the same strain of HPV, there is a risk of reinfection. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor your health and maintain regular check-ups with your healthcare provider.

5. Preventive Measures: To minimize the risk of HPV transmission, both you and your partner should consider regular screenings and follow-up appointments. Vaccination can still be beneficial for you to protect against other HPV types. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system can help your body manage the virus more effectively.

In conclusion, while HPV can be a complex and sometimes distressing issue, understanding its transmission dynamics can empower you to make informed decisions about your health and relationships. Open communication with your partner, regular medical check-ups, and safe sexual practices are key components in managing HPV effectively. If you have further concerns or symptoms, do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options.

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