Can I Contract HPV After Unprotected Sex with an Infected Partner?

If my boyfriend has genital warts and we engage in sexual intercourse after he has undergone electrocautery, am I at risk of being infected?

Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about something.
In April of this year, I learned that my partner had genital warts (condyloma) and underwent electrocautery treatment in February 2022.
I had unprotected sexual intercourse with him in early March (I had previously tried to prevent him from not using protection).
A month later, I found out about his genital warts.
We had sexual intercourse four times in March.
Is there a high chance that I could contract genital warts? My only sexual partner is my boyfriend, but he is not monogamous.
I understand that the average incubation period for genital warts is about three months.
Recently, I visited a gynecologist, and currently, I only have excessive discharge, which seems like an infection, but it is unclear whether I have contracted genital warts.
The doctor prescribed medication to reduce the discharge and advised me to return for a Pap smear.
I would like to know if a Pap smear can detect sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
I realize that it has only been a month since the exposure, but I am still very worried that if I enter the incubation period, it could become severe.
If I get tested in a month and find out that I have contracted something, will early medication treatment be effective in curing it? Thank you, Doctor.

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/25

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

There is a possibility, but it is not guaranteed.
Currently, it is not possible to determine if an infection has actually occurred.
A smear test cannot provide this information, and since we do not know if there is an infection, we cannot initiate preemptive treatment.
Administering medication in advance would not be effective; we can only wait and observe for the appearance of any lesions.

Reply Date: 2022/04/25

More Info

When it comes to the transmission of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and the management of sexual health, it is crucial to understand the nature of HPV, its transmission, and the implications of engaging in sexual activity with an infected partner.
HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. There are many strains of HPV, some of which are classified as high-risk due to their association with certain cancers, while others are considered low-risk and are typically associated with conditions like genital warts (condylomata acuminata).

In your case, since you engaged in unprotected sex with a partner who has a history of genital warts (condylomata), there is indeed a risk of contracting HPV. The average incubation period for HPV can vary, but it is often around three months, meaning that symptoms or detectable viral presence may not appear immediately after exposure.
Regarding your concerns about testing and treatment:
1. Testing for HPV: A Pap smear (or Pap test) is primarily used to screen for cervical cancer and can detect changes in cervical cells caused by high-risk HPV types. However, it does not specifically test for the presence of low-risk HPV types that cause genital warts. If you are experiencing symptoms such as increased discharge, it is essential to communicate this to your healthcare provider, as they may recommend additional tests or examinations to rule out other infections or conditions.

2. Timing of Testing: If you have been exposed to HPV, it is advisable to wait at least three months before undergoing testing for HPV. This allows enough time for the virus to potentially become detectable. If you test positive for HPV, your healthcare provider will discuss the appropriate management and treatment options.

3. Treatment Options: If you do contract HPV and develop genital warts, there are several treatment options available, including topical treatments, cryotherapy (freezing), or surgical removal. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission to partners.

4. Preventive Measures: It is crucial to have open and honest discussions with your partner about sexual health. Using condoms can significantly reduce the risk of HPV transmission, although they do not provide complete protection since HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom. Additionally, vaccination with the HPV vaccine can help protect against the most common high-risk and low-risk HPV types.

5. Emotional and Psychological Impact: It is understandable to feel anxious about potential infection. Engaging in regular check-ups and maintaining communication with your healthcare provider can help alleviate some of this anxiety.
In summary, while there is a risk of contracting HPV after unprotected sex with an infected partner, early detection and treatment can help manage the situation effectively. It is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider for appropriate testing and to discuss any symptoms you may be experiencing. Regular screenings and preventive measures, including vaccination and safe sex practices, are key components in managing sexual health and reducing the risk of HPV transmission.

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