Key Questions About HPV Treatment and Vaccination for Women

Several questions regarding HPV treatment?

Hello Doctor, I have been undergoing treatment for HPV for about 3 weeks.

1.
Should I wait until the HPV treatment is completed before receiving the nine-valent vaccine, or can I get vaccinated now?
2.
My partner had a sexually transmitted infection (STI) test before we engaged in sexual activity, and the results were normal, with no HPV detected.
However, I had not had sexual intercourse for 10 years, and after we became sexually active, I contracted genital warts.
I read online that if a male has a low viral load of HPV, it may not be detected in tests, even though the virus is present.
During the time we started having sex, I was experiencing severe vaginitis, with one side of my labia being scratched and torn, and the area near the anal notch also had repeated lacerations due to a long period without sexual activity.
The areas where I contracted genital warts are these two spots.
I also underwent waxing and used a hot tub at the gym (sitting in a tub without hot water).
I would like to know if I contracted genital warts solely from sexual activity or if there could be other factors involved.

3.
Currently, I have about four warts remaining in the anal notch area.
The doctor mentioned that it is more challenging to heal in that location, but since I have been using Aldara for 3 weeks, I should continue the treatment.
However, if it is indeed difficult to heal, should I arrange for electrosurgery soon?
4.
Once the symptoms are resolved, does that not necessarily mean the treatment is complete? How long will it take, or what tests should be done to determine if I am cured?
5.
How long after treatment can I resume sexual activity?
6.
I have larger labia and thicker thighs (which may cause friction).
Could these factors contribute to the vagina being "trapped," leading to persistent inflammation and Candida infections? Thank you, Doctor.

C, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/13

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
There is no need for treatment, and there is no effective way to treat HPV.

2.
Warts are transmitted through contact, which can occur through sexual activity or environmental exposure; of course, areas of the skin that are damaged or have defects are more susceptible to infection.

3.
If they are too large, electrosurgery can be considered for a quick resolution.

4.
Yes, if warty lesions reappear, seek medical attention promptly.

5.
Typically, treatment can be resumed once there are no warty lesions and the wounds have healed.

6.
This is one of the factors.

Reply Date: 2021/07/13

More Info

When it comes to HPV (human papillomavirus) treatment and vaccination, especially for women who are currently undergoing treatment, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Here are the answers to your key questions:
1. Timing of the HPV Vaccine: It is generally recommended that individuals wait until their HPV treatment is completed before receiving the nine-valent HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9). However, if you are currently undergoing treatment, it may still be possible to receive the vaccine, as it does not interfere with the treatment process. The vaccine is designed to prevent future infections with the types of HPV it covers, including high-risk types that can lead to cervical cancer. It is best to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate timing for vaccination based on your specific situation.

2. Transmission of HPV: Regarding your concerns about transmission, it is indeed possible for HPV to be present in a partner without being detected in standard screenings. HPV can be asymptomatic, and men may not always show signs of infection. If you had not engaged in sexual activity for ten years and then became infected after resuming sexual relations, it is likely that the virus was transmitted during that encounter. Additionally, any breaks or injuries to the skin, such as those caused by vaginal inflammation or tearing, can increase susceptibility to HPV infection. Therefore, while sexual contact is a primary mode of transmission, other factors such as skin integrity and the presence of other infections can also play a role.

3. Treatment of Genital Warts: If you have genital warts (often referred to as "cauliflower" due to their appearance), and they are not responding to topical treatments after three weeks, it may be advisable to consider other treatment options, such as cryotherapy or electrosurgery. These methods can effectively remove warts, especially in areas that are difficult to treat with topical medications. Discussing these options with your healthcare provider can help you make an informed decision about the best course of action.

4. Monitoring Treatment Success: The resolution of visible warts does not necessarily mean that the HPV infection has been completely eradicated. HPV can remain dormant in the body, and while many individuals clear the virus naturally over time, some may not. To determine if the treatment has been successful, follow-up examinations and possibly HPV testing may be necessary. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the appropriate timing for these assessments.

5. Resuming Sexual Activity: It is generally recommended to wait until all visible signs of warts have resolved and any associated skin irritation has healed before resuming sexual activity. This helps reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to partners and allows for proper healing. Your healthcare provider can give you specific guidance based on your treatment progress.

6. Factors Contributing to Infections: Regarding your concerns about vaginal infections, factors such as skin friction due to larger labia or excess weight can contribute to irritation and increase the risk of infections like yeast infections. Maintaining good hygiene, wearing breathable clothing, and managing any underlying conditions can help reduce the risk of recurrent infections. If you suspect that your anatomy is contributing to these issues, discussing this with a healthcare provider may provide additional insights and management strategies.

In summary, navigating HPV treatment and vaccination involves understanding the timing of vaccinations, the nature of HPV transmission, and the importance of follow-up care. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that you receive personalized advice and treatment tailored to your needs.

Similar Q&A

Understanding HPV Infection: Risks, Treatments, and Expert Advice

Hello: I was infected with genital warts in March and underwent electrosurgical treatment. As of now, in November, it seems stable and hasn't been growing. However, I had a Pap smear and HPV test done the day before yesterday, and the report showed mild inflammation; I am in...

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If there are no clinical symptoms (such as excessive discharge), electrocautery treatment may not be necessary, as it would not be beneficial. It is recommended to undergo regular follow-up examinations instead. If there are financial constraints, receiving the HPV vaccine can be...

Understanding HPV Vaccination: Key Questions for Couples

Hello doctor, I recently visited an HPV educational website that encourages both men and women to get the HPV vaccine, as women who have repeated infections are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. I have a few questions: 1. I am currently 35 years old and have had s...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is generally recommended to get vaccinated under the age of 26. The effectiveness of the vaccine may be reduced for those aged 35 and older. If you decide to get vaccinated, you should start from the first dose, and blood tests are typically not required. Wishing you go...

Understanding HPV: Risks, Vaccination, and Pregnancy Concerns

Hello, 1. If you were infected with genital warts (caused by HPV) many years ago and have not had a recurrence since treatment, it is possible that the virus is no longer active in your body. However, some strains of HPV can remain dormant and may not cause symptoms. Regarding ...

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: Generally speaking, HPV infection occurs quickly after exposure to the virus, so it is best to vaccinate before "having the opportunity to come into contact with the HPV virus." Currently, the target population is primarily ages 12 to 26, as well as children aged...

Understanding Human Papillomavirus: Myths, Transmission, and Treatment Options

Dear Director, I apologize for interrupting you during your busy schedule. I would like to inquire about human papillomavirus (HPV) - perhaps my search skills are lacking, as I cannot find relevant information about this disease online. Could you please provide me with some infor...

Dr. Huang Mingde reply Family Medicine
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to genital warts and cervical cancer. This virus can infect anyone, but it is particularly associated with cervical issues. Currently, the best prevention methods include avoiding unprotected sexual inte...