Throat Irritation After Oral Sex: Is HPV a Concern?

Infection issues

Hello Doctor, my girlfriend and I often engage in intimate activities.
She had an HPV test done four months ago, and the results were normal.
My girlfriend frequently performs oral sex on me, but recently, in the past week or two, she has experienced a scratchy throat that leads to coughing about every 2-3 days.
This has happened three times now.
I lead a very simple life and do not engage in any risky behavior.
My penis appears normal.
Doctor, could my girlfriend be experiencing a throat infection due to performing oral sex on me? (Sometimes when she performs oral sex, I do not wash my penis beforehand and just remove my pants and start.) Is it possible for her to have a throat infection related to HPV, or do you think this is simply a throat issue unrelated to oral sex? Should she see an ENT specialist? I apologize for the many questions, and thank you!

Xiao Xin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/09/17

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My girlfriend and I often engage in intimate activities.
She had an HPV test done four months ago, and the results were normal.
My girlfriend frequently performs oral sex on me, but recently, over the past week or two, she has experienced a sore throat about every 2-3 days, which leads her to cough.
This has happened three times now.
I lead a very simple life and do not engage in any risky behavior.
My penis appears normal.
Doctor, could my girlfriend be experiencing a throat infection due to performing oral sex on me? Answer: No, she would not contract anything (sometimes when she performs oral sex, I do not wash my penis beforehand and just start after taking off my pants).
Is it possible for her to have a throat infection from HPV? Answer: It is possible, or do you think this is simply a throat issue and not related to oral sex? Should she see an ENT specialist? Answer: Yes, she should see an ENT specialist.

Reply Date: 2019/09/17

More Info

When it comes to the relationship between oral sex and HPV (Human Papillomavirus), it's important to understand the potential risks and implications for both partners involved. HPV is primarily transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, particularly during sexual activities, including oral sex. While the most well-known strains of HPV are associated with genital warts and cervical cancer, certain types can also lead to oropharyngeal cancers, which affect the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils.

In your case, your girlfriend's throat irritation after engaging in oral sex could potentially be linked to several factors. First, the irritation might not necessarily indicate an HPV infection. It could be due to other common causes such as allergies, dry air, or even a mild viral infection unrelated to sexual activity. However, if she is experiencing persistent symptoms like throat itching and coughing, it would be wise for her to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to rule out any infections or other underlying conditions.

Regarding the transmission of HPV through oral sex, while it is possible for HPV to be transmitted to the throat, the likelihood of developing symptoms or diseases from this transmission varies. The strains of HPV that are most commonly associated with oropharyngeal cancers are HPV types 16 and 18, among others. If your girlfriend has been tested for HPV and the results were normal, it suggests that she does not currently have an active HPV infection. However, it's important to note that HPV can remain dormant in the body for years, and not all infections lead to visible symptoms or diseases.

If your girlfriend is concerned about the possibility of developing warts (often referred to as "cauliflower" lesions) in her throat or mouth, it is essential to understand that while HPV can cause these lesions, not everyone who is exposed to the virus will develop them. The immune system plays a significant role in controlling HPV infections, and many individuals clear the virus naturally within a couple of years without any treatment.

In terms of your hygiene practices, while it is generally advisable to maintain good genital hygiene before engaging in oral sex, the absence of washing does not necessarily guarantee transmission of HPV or other infections. However, it is always a good practice to ensure cleanliness to minimize the risk of other infections, such as bacterial or fungal infections, which could also contribute to throat irritation.

In conclusion, while HPV can be transmitted through oral sex and may lead to throat-related issues, the symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing could be due to a variety of factors unrelated to HPV. It is advisable for her to see a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Additionally, both partners should consider discussing HPV vaccination, as the vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of contracting high-risk HPV strains associated with various cancers. Regular screenings and open communication about sexual health are also crucial in managing risks associated with HPV and other sexually transmitted infections.

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