Sexual activity after the treatment of cauliflower ear?
On April 26, after having unprotected sex, I discovered that my girlfriend had genital warts.
The next day, on April 27, she was diagnosed with genital warts and immediately began treatment.
After all the warts were resolved, on August 1, my girlfriend and I went for STI testing, and all results were negative.
On August 6, after her treatment was completed, we had intercourse for the first time while using a condom.
However, after we finished and cleaned up, my girlfriend seemed to forget about her condition and touched her clitoris with my glans.
I immediately stopped her, and she quickly got up to wash my glans.
My question is, even though the area that was touched is not where the lesions were located, is there still a risk of transmission? Also, considering that there has been no recurrence for three months, does this indicate that the risk of transmission is still high? I am very concerned and wondering if I need to abstain for another three months before getting tested again.
Please help clarify these concerns, doctor.
Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/06
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: The transmission of genital warts primarily occurs through sexual intercourse.
Generally, after three months, the risk of transmission decreases significantly.
Of course, contact can also lead to transmission, but this depends on the viral load and the immune status of the infected person.
For safe sexual practices, men should carefully monitor their skin for any lesions and seek medical attention from a urologist if they notice any abnormalities.
Women should undergo regular gynecological examinations, as lesions in the vagina may not present any symptoms and can be difficult to detect.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2018/08/06
More Info
Understanding the risks of HPV transmission after treatment is crucial for both partners involved. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection, and while many people may clear the virus naturally, some strains can lead to health issues such as genital warts (often referred to as "cauliflower" or "condyloma") or even cervical cancer.
In your situation, it’s important to consider several factors regarding HPV transmission and the effectiveness of treatment. First, let’s address the concern about touching the genital area after treatment. HPV can be present on the skin even when there are no visible warts or lesions. However, the risk of transmission is significantly lower once the warts have been treated and resolved. If your girlfriend had successfully treated her warts and had no visible lesions at the time of your contact, the likelihood of transmission through incidental contact (like touching) is minimal, but not entirely absent.
The fact that you both tested negative for STIs three months after her treatment is a positive sign. It suggests that there was no active infection at that time. However, HPV can remain dormant in the body, and it’s possible for someone to be a carrier without showing symptoms. This means that while the risk of transmission is reduced, it is not completely eliminated.
Regarding your question about the need for abstinence, it’s generally recommended to avoid sexual activity until you are both confident that the infection has cleared and that there are no visible signs of warts. Since your girlfriend has been treated and has not had a recurrence for three months, the risk of transmission is lower, but it’s wise to continue practicing safe sex, including the use of condoms, to further reduce the risk of any potential transmission.
If you are still concerned about the possibility of HPV transmission, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances and may recommend follow-up testing for both of you. Regular check-ups and open communication with your partner about sexual health are essential for managing the risks associated with HPV.
In summary, while the risk of transmission after successful treatment is lower, it is not zero. Continuing to practice safe sex and maintaining regular health check-ups are key strategies in managing HPV risks. If you have further concerns, consider discussing them with a healthcare professional who can provide tailored advice and reassurance.
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