HPV and Genital Warts: Risks, Symptoms, and Recovery

Cauliflower (Condylomata Acuminata)

Hello, if I received the public-funded HPV vaccine around the time I was in the 8th or 9th grade, and then in my first year of college I had sexual relations with a male who had genital warts (without knowing he had them), what is the likelihood of infection? If it has been a year now without any symptoms, does that mean I am not infected? I read an article that mentioned, "A study tracking women infected with HPV types 6 and 11 found that only 60% developed genital warts within two years.
Although the areas surrounding the warts appeared normal, studies indicated that 45% of these seemingly normal areas were already harboring the HPV virus, and these individuals were more likely to experience recurrence of genital warts." How can I determine if I still have the HPV virus in my body? What is the longest incubation period for genital warts? How long without symptoms can be considered as healed?

Aqi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/17

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

During the second or third year of junior high school, I received the subsidized cervical cancer vaccine.
Then, in my first year of college, I had a sexual encounter with a guy who had genital warts (at that time, I was unaware he had them).
What is the likelihood of infection in this scenario? Answer: Theoretically, the risk is low.
If a year has passed without any symptoms, does that mean I am not infected? Answer: I came across an article stating, "A study tracking women infected with HPV types 6 and 11 found that only 60% developed genital warts within two years.
Although the areas surrounding the warts may appear normal, research indicates that 45% of these seemingly normal areas may harbor the HPV virus, making these individuals more susceptible to recurrence of warts." (Excerpted from http://heartvalley.blogspot.com/2010/08/blog-post_26.html?m=1) How can I confirm whether I still have the HPV virus in my body? Answer: Testing for HPV DNA.
What is the longest incubation period for genital warts? Answer: The longest incubation period is unknown.
How long without symptoms can be considered healed? Answer: Having received the cervical cancer vaccine, theoretically, the risk of infection is low.

Reply Date: 2018/10/17

More Info

Understanding HPV and Genital Warts: Risks, Symptoms, and Recovery
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can lead to various health issues, including genital warts and certain types of cancer. The risk of contracting HPV, particularly types associated with genital warts (such as HPV types 6 and 11), can be influenced by several factors, including vaccination status and sexual history.

In your case, having received the cervical cancer vaccine (likely Gardasil) during your early teenage years provides a significant level of protection against the most common high-risk HPV types, particularly types 16 and 18, which are responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. However, the vaccine does not cover all HPV types, especially the low-risk types that cause genital warts. Therefore, engaging in sexual activity with a partner who has visible genital warts does pose a risk of transmission, even if you were vaccinated.

Regarding your concern about not showing any symptoms a year after the encounter, it is important to note that HPV can remain dormant in the body for extended periods. While many individuals may clear the virus naturally within two years, some may carry it without any visible symptoms or lesions. Research indicates that a significant percentage of individuals infected with HPV types 6 and 11 may not develop genital warts, as you mentioned. The presence of HPV does not always correlate with the appearance of warts, and many individuals may unknowingly harbor the virus.

To determine if you still have HPV, the most reliable method is through HPV testing, which can be done via a Pap smear or specific HPV tests. However, these tests are typically recommended for women, especially those over 30, as part of routine cervical cancer screening. For men, there is currently no approved test for HPV, and diagnosis is often based on the presence of visible symptoms, such as genital warts.

The incubation period for genital warts can vary widely, with some individuals developing warts within weeks of exposure, while others may not show symptoms for months or even years. The longest reported incubation period can extend up to several years, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact time of infection.

As for recovery, the absence of symptoms for a prolonged period (typically two years) may suggest that your immune system has effectively cleared the virus. However, it is essential to understand that even if you do not have visible symptoms, the virus can still be present in a latent form. Regular check-ups and monitoring are advisable, especially if you have concerns about your sexual health or potential symptoms.

In conclusion, while your vaccination provides a degree of protection, it does not eliminate the risk of contracting HPV types that cause genital warts. The absence of symptoms for a year is a positive sign, but it does not guarantee that the virus is no longer present. If you have ongoing concerns, consider consulting a healthcare provider for further evaluation and potential HPV testing. Engaging in safe sexual practices, including the use of condoms, can also help reduce the risk of HPV transmission in the future.

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