HPV and Its Impact on Men's Health: A Comprehensive Guide

Phimosis (excessive foreskin)

I was in a relationship with my ex-girlfriend from February to September, during which I was unaware that she had contracted HPV type 6 (genital warts) and high-risk type 56.
She went to see a doctor on May 20 and later confessed to me about her condition.
At that time, I did not notice any obvious symptoms on my own genitalia, and my partner had performed oral sex on me multiple times without me noticing any infection in her oral cavity.
I initially thought I had not been infected by her since we started using condoms later on.
However, on December 28, after taking a shower, I noticed a small protrusion that was not very obvious but had developed.
On April 10, I consulted a urologist who said it was not genital warts but just a minor candidiasis infection and prescribed Mecon Cream, which resolved the odor.
Yesterday, I visited another urologist who diagnosed me with mild genital warts, took pictures, and prescribed Condylox and Podophyllotoxin.

1.
Regarding these two medications, should they be left on for a few minutes or will they be absorbed immediately? Since the affected area is small, about less than half a grain of rice, should the white covering be applied completely?
2.
I have phimosis, and since the warts are located on the moist inner part of the foreskin, wouldn’t that make it easier for the infection to spread? Should I use a tissue to dry the moist area after urinating?
3.
When washing the genital warts area in the shower, if I touch it and then touch the glans, is there a risk of spreading the infection to other areas? Should I wash the warts area last?
4.
I am currently applying Condylox and Podophyllotoxin and have a follow-up appointment in a week.
During the treatment period, is it advisable to avoid DIY treatments as they might exacerbate the lesions?
5.
If a male has already contracted the four types of HPV, is it unnecessary to spend money on getting vaccinated?
6.
I informed my current girlfriend about my condition and advised her to get the nine-valent vaccine, but she has a history of genital warts.
Is it still possible for her to receive the vaccine?
I would appreciate your assistance in answering these six questions.
Thank you.

Cappu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/29

Dr. Liu Mingyue reply Urology

1.
When applying ointment, a thin layer is usually sufficient; the amount that makes your fingers feel oily is enough.
After application, no special treatment is needed; as long as you don't wash it off completely or scrub it hard, it won't be wiped off by clothing, and you can just leave it as is.

2.
Viral warts can be contagious upon contact, even if they are dry.
Soap can destroy most viruses, and since there is a lot of water during bathing, the transmission risk should not be too high.
It is advisable to avoid touching them, and if you do, wash your hands with soap.

3.
The quadrivalent vaccine provides about 50-70% protection, while the nine-valent vaccine offers about 90% protection; however, it does not cover all viral strains, so infection is still possible.
The four strains in the quadrivalent vaccine are included in the nine-valent vaccine, so the additional protection from getting the quadrivalent vaccine again is limited; whether it is worth it depends on individual circumstances.

4.
There should be no correlation between keloid predisposition and vaccination; vaccines rarely cause scarring, and keloids do not reduce vaccine efficacy, so it should be safe to receive the vaccine.
However, for specific concerns, it is best to consult the administering physician directly.

Reply Date: 2020/12/29

More Info

Understanding HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and its implications for men's health is crucial, especially considering the complexities surrounding transmission, symptoms, and treatment options. Your concerns about HPV, particularly after being informed of your ex-girlfriend's diagnosis, are valid and reflect a common anxiety among individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.

1. HPV Transmission and Symptoms: HPV is primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. While many people with HPV do not exhibit symptoms, some strains can lead to visible warts (such as genital warts caused by low-risk types like HPV 6 and 11) or more serious conditions, including cancers associated with high-risk types (like HPV 16 and 18). It’s important to note that even if you do not see any symptoms, you could still carry the virus and potentially transmit it to others.

2. Diagnosis and Treatment: You mentioned receiving a diagnosis of mild genital warts and being prescribed medications such as "克疣凝" (likely referring to a topical treatment for warts) and "紫箘素" (possibly referring to a compound used for treating warts). When applying these treatments, it is generally recommended to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Typically, these medications should be applied directly to the affected area and allowed to absorb for a specified time before washing off, but you should confirm this with your doctor or pharmacist.

3. Hygiene Practices: Given your concern about the potential spread of HPV, maintaining good hygiene is essential. After using the restroom, gently patting the area dry can help reduce moisture, which may contribute to the spread of warts. When washing, it is advisable to clean the affected area last to minimize the risk of transferring the virus to other parts of your body.

4. Self-Care During Treatment: While undergoing treatment for HPV, it is generally advised to avoid any activities that could irritate the area, including DIY treatments or excessive manipulation of the warts. This can help prevent the spread of the virus and reduce the risk of new warts forming.

5. Vaccination Considerations: If you have already been diagnosed with HPV, particularly with strains that the vaccine covers, you may wonder about the efficacy of getting vaccinated. The HPV vaccine (like the quadrivalent or nine-valent vaccines) is designed to prevent new infections from specific strains of HPV. It does not treat existing infections or warts. However, vaccination can still be beneficial in preventing future infections from strains you have not yet encountered.

6. Partner Considerations: It’s commendable that you have informed your current girlfriend about your HPV status and encouraged her to get vaccinated. If she has a history of genital warts (like "蟹足腫"), it’s important for her to consult with her healthcare provider regarding the safety and timing of the HPV vaccine. Generally, individuals with a history of warts can still receive the vaccine, but medical advice should be sought.

In summary, understanding HPV and its implications is vital for both your health and the health of your partners. Regular check-ups, open communication with partners, and adherence to treatment protocols can help manage the situation effectively. If you have further questions or concerns, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.

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