STDs: Concerns About Transmission and Safe Practices

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) issues?

Hello Doctor, I have a question.
My boyfriend had a small bump last year and after examination, it was diagnosed as genital warts.
I trust him completely, and I also got checked and was found to be negative.
He has been very protective of me and has followed the doctor's advice not to engage in sexual intercourse during this time.
During my last follow-up appointment, the doctor mentioned that there were no signs of the condition and the chances of transmission were very low, so I don’t need to return for another check-up in three months.
We do use condoms during intercourse, but today after we finished, some of his semen accidentally got on my abdomen and the inner thigh, and he also had some near his abdomen.
I’m not too worried, but my boyfriend is very concerned about me getting infected, so he took me to the bathroom to wash it off and kept apologizing.
I feel that it shouldn’t harm me, and I willingly engaged in this knowing he truly cares about me and is worried about infecting me.
Since we are engaged, I really don’t think it makes a difference.
I looked up the transmission routes online and showed him that it is primarily through sexual intercourse involving bodily fluids and blood through mucous membranes, not through any skin contact.
I also mentioned that if it were easily transmissible, he would have infected himself long ago, and his semen might be safe by now.
He is just overly concerned about me, which is why he insists on waiting to have unprotected sex in the future.
I would like to ask the doctor if my understanding is correct.
Thank you for your response and advice.

Chichi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/19

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, cauliflower is indeed transmitted through bodily fluids and blood via mucous membranes, and the risk of infection through general skin contact is quite low.
As for condoms, they serve two additional purposes: one is to prevent the transmission of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and the other is to prevent pregnancy.
Since you are already engaged, whether to consider these two aspects depends on both of your thoughts.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/10/19

More Info

When it comes to understanding sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and their transmission, it's essential to have accurate information to alleviate concerns and promote safe practices. Your situation involves a partner who has been diagnosed with genital warts (caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV), and you are understandably concerned about the potential for transmission, especially after an incident where his semen came into contact with your skin.

Firstly, it's important to clarify how HPV and other STDs are transmitted. HPV is primarily spread through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. While the virus can be present in bodily fluids, the primary mode of transmission is through contact with infected areas of skin. This means that if there are no visible warts or lesions on your partner's skin at the time of contact, the risk of transmission is significantly reduced.

In your case, since you have been tested and found to be negative for HPV, and your partner has been following medical advice and has not engaged in sexual activity with you during the period of concern, your risk of contracting the virus is low. The fact that your partner is also taking precautions and is concerned about your health indicates a responsible approach to managing his condition and protecting you.

Regarding the incident where his semen accidentally came into contact with your skin, the risk of transmission in this manner is minimal. HPV does not spread through casual contact or through semen on intact skin. The virus typically requires direct contact with mucous membranes or broken skin to be transmitted. Therefore, your understanding that transmission is unlikely in this scenario is correct.

It's also worth noting that many people with HPV do not show symptoms and may not even know they are infected. This is why regular screenings and open communication with partners about sexual health are crucial. Since you are already using condoms during sexual intercourse, you are taking an important step to reduce the risk of transmission of not only HPV but also other STDs.

Your partner's concern for your health is commendable, and it reflects a caring relationship. However, it is also essential for both of you to have open discussions about sexual health, including the implications of his diagnosis and the measures you are both willing to take to ensure safety. If he feels more comfortable waiting to have unprotected sex until he has further medical reassurance, that is a valid choice, and it’s important to respect each other's feelings and boundaries.

In conclusion, your understanding of the transmission routes for HPV and the precautions you are taking are correct. Continue to communicate openly with your partner, and consider consulting with a healthcare provider for further reassurance or guidance on managing sexual health in your relationship. Regular check-ups and discussions about STDs can help both of you feel more secure and informed moving forward.

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