Can You Have Sex with Genital Warts? Risks of Self-Contact Explained

There are viral warts on the genital area?

If there are viral warts on the skin near the upper part of the scrotum, is it safe to engage in sexual activity? Could masturbation lead to infection in other areas?

Ma Ke, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/21

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Using condoms can help prevent the transmission of infections to others.

Reply Date: 2017/09/21

More Info

When it comes to genital warts, which are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), there are several important considerations regarding sexual activity and the risk of transmission, especially in the context of self-contact or masturbation.

First and foremost, genital warts are contagious. They can be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. If you have visible warts on your genital area, engaging in sexual activity can pose a risk to your partner, as the virus can be spread even when warts are not present. Therefore, it is generally advisable to avoid sexual intercourse while you have active warts to minimize the risk of transmission.

Regarding the question of whether masturbation could lead to the infection of other body parts, the risk is relatively low but not entirely absent. If you have genital warts and you touch them and then touch another area of your body, such as your mouth or other skin, there is a theoretical risk of transferring the virus. However, HPV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected skin or mucous membranes, so the likelihood of self-inoculation (infecting another part of your body) is much lower compared to direct sexual contact with an infected partner.

If you are considering engaging in sexual activity while having genital warts, here are some key points to keep in mind:
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It's essential to speak with a healthcare professional about your condition. They can provide guidance on treatment options and the best practices to reduce the risk of transmission.

2. Avoid Sexual Activity: If you have visible warts, it is advisable to refrain from sexual activity until they have been treated and resolved. This helps protect both you and your partner from potential transmission.

3. Use Protection: If you do choose to engage in sexual activity, using condoms can help reduce the risk of transmitting HPV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, condoms do not provide complete protection since HPV can infect areas not covered by the condom.

4. Regular Check-ups: Regular screenings and check-ups are important for sexually active individuals, especially those with a history of STIs or visible warts. This helps in early detection and management of any potential health issues.

5. Vaccination: The HPV vaccine can protect against the most common and high-risk strains of HPV that cause genital warts and cervical cancer. If you have not been vaccinated, consider discussing this with your healthcare provider.

In summary, while it is possible to engage in sexual activity with genital warts, it is not recommended due to the risk of transmission. Masturbation carries a lower risk of self-infection, but caution should still be exercised. Always prioritize communication with your partner and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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