Can HPV Types 52 and 58 Cause Genital Warts? Transmission Risks - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 200 related viruses, some of which are classified as low-risk and others as high-risk. Types 52 and 58 are considered high-risk HPV types, primarily associated with cervical cancer and other anogenital cancers, rather than genital warts. Genital warts, also known as condylomata acuminata, are typically caused by low-risk HPV types, most commonly types 6 and 11.

In your case, since you tested positive for HPV types 52 and 58, it is unlikely that these specific types would directly cause genital warts. However, it is important to note that HPV infections can be complex, and individuals can be infected with multiple types of HPV simultaneously. Therefore, while your positive test results indicate the presence of high-risk HPV types, it does not rule out the possibility of having been exposed to low-risk types that could cause genital warts.

Regarding the transmission of HPV, it is indeed possible that you could have transmitted the virus to your boyfriend. HPV is primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The virus can be present even when an infected person shows no symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as a "silent" infection. The incubation period for HPV can vary widely; it can take weeks, months, or even years for symptoms to appear after exposure. This means that if your boyfriend developed genital warts in May 2021, he could have contracted the virus from you or from a previous partner.

As for the possibility of your boyfriend having been unfaithful, it is difficult to determine the exact source of an HPV infection without further testing. The presence of genital warts in your boyfriend does not necessarily mean he contracted the virus from you, as he could have been exposed to it from a previous sexual partner.
In summary, while HPV types 52 and 58 are not known to cause genital warts, it is possible that you or your boyfriend could have been exposed to other HPV types that do. The transmission of HPV is common, and many sexually active individuals will encounter the virus at some point in their lives. If you have concerns about your health or your boyfriend's health, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance. Regular screenings and open communication with partners about sexual health are essential in managing HPV and reducing the risk of transmission.