Concerns About Plantar Warts and Safe Sexual Practices

Concerns about plantar warts and sexual activity?

I previously had plantar warts and completed cryotherapy over six months ago.
Now, as I discuss having sexual intercourse with my girlfriend for the first time, I would like to know if there is a possibility of infection, what types of contact to avoid, and what safety measures I should take.

Tuzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/27

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the majority of foot warts are primarily caused by infection with HPV type 1.
They typically appear on the soles of the feet and are most common in children and adolescents.
These warts tend to be thicker than common warts, and because they are located on the soles, they may not be detected early.
When the lesions grow too large, they can become painful and swollen, causing discomfort while walking.

Here are some methods to prevent viral warts:
1.
Avoid contact with lesions: Do not intentionally scratch or pick at the warts.
If you accidentally come into contact with a wart, wash your hands to prevent spreading the virus to other areas or to other people.
You can cover the wart with a bandage or small gauze to isolate it.
Patients with foot warts should minimize walking barefoot or sharing slippers to avoid cross-infection.
Avoid touching normal skin with pumice stones, nail clippers, or nail files that have come into contact with the lesions.
2.
Maintain a healthy skin barrier: Keep the integrity of the skin intact.
Individuals with eczema, dyshidrotic eczema, athlete's foot, or dry, cracked skin are more susceptible to small fissures that allow the virus to enter through tiny wounds.
Therefore, it is important to actively treat these associated skin conditions and consider using hand creams or foot creams to maintain skin health.
3.
Reduce opportunities for public infection: When visiting public places (such as swimming pools, hot springs, or gyms), try to bring your own slippers and avoid direct exposure of bare feet to public environments or sharing shoes, towels, etc.
After touching public areas or facilities, wash your hands thoroughly with soap or hand wash.
There are many treatment options for skin warts, and it is recommended to have a physician confirm the diagnosis and receive complete treatment while actively preventing recurrence.
The original lesions should be treated until the skin is smooth and has a normal texture to ensure a lower chance of recurrence.

Wishing you peace and health,
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2020/05/27

More Info

When it comes to concerns about plantar warts (also known as verrucae plantaris) and safe sexual practices, it is essential to understand both the nature of the virus that causes these warts and the risks associated with sexual activity. Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a different strain from those that typically cause genital warts. However, since HPV can have many strains, it is crucial to be aware of the potential for transmission and the necessary precautions to take.

Firstly, plantar warts are primarily located on the soles of the feet and are typically not transmitted through sexual contact. The HPV strains that cause plantar warts are usually contracted through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, or shared footwear. Therefore, the risk of transmitting plantar warts during sexual activity is minimal, especially if the warts have been treated and are no longer present.

However, if you have a history of HPV-related conditions, it is essential to consider the broader implications of HPV. While the strain that causes plantar warts is not the same as those that cause genital warts, engaging in sexual activity does carry the risk of transmitting other strains of HPV that can lead to genital warts or, in some cases, more severe health issues such as cervical cancer or other anogenital cancers.

To ensure safe sexual practices, here are some recommendations:
1. Communication: Discuss your medical history with your partner. Transparency about past health issues, including any history of warts or HPV, can help both partners make informed decisions.

2. Use Protection: Always use condoms or dental dams during sexual activity. While these barriers may not cover all areas that could potentially be exposed to HPV, they significantly reduce the risk of transmission of many sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HPV.

3. Avoid Direct Contact with Warts: If you have any visible warts, whether plantar or genital, avoid any direct contact with them during sexual activity. This includes not engaging in sexual activities that may involve skin-to-skin contact in those areas.

4. Regular Check-ups: Regular health check-ups and screenings for STIs are essential, especially if you are sexually active. This can help in early detection and treatment of any potential issues.

5. Vaccination: Consider getting the HPV vaccine if you haven't already. The vaccine can protect against the most common strains of HPV that cause genital warts and certain cancers. It is most effective when given before the onset of sexual activity.

6. Hygiene Practices: Maintain good hygiene before and after sexual activity. This includes washing hands and genital areas to reduce the risk of transmitting any infections.

7. Monitor for Symptoms: After engaging in sexual activity, keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms, such as new growths or changes in your skin. If you notice anything concerning, consult a healthcare provider promptly.

In summary, while the risk of transmitting plantar warts during sexual activity is low, it is still essential to practice safe sex and communicate openly with your partner about health concerns. By taking precautions, you can enjoy a healthy sexual relationship while minimizing the risk of transmitting or contracting HPV or other STIs. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific situation.

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