Can You Contract HPV from Touching in a Massage Parlor?

Q: Can You Contract HPV from Touching in a Massage Parlor?

Hello： <br>1. <br>Is it possible to contract genital warts if the massage therapist only performed acupressure and manual stimulation? --> If the other person has the HPV virus, it is possible, but the risk is lower than with sexual intercourse.<br>2. <br>I touched the therapist'

Is there a possibility of contracting genital warts by touching a sex worker's genitals or nipples in a massage parlor?

Hello, doctor:
1.
Could you please tell me if the situation where a woman only performed acupressure massage and manual stimulation on me in a massage parlor could potentially lead to the transmission of genital warts (condyloma acuminatum)?
2.
I touched the woman's breasts and external genitalia (only the outer area, without penetration, and I did not feel any lumps in her genital area).
My fingers had some abrasions but no bleeding, and there was a small wound on the side of my nail.
However, I only used my fingertip to touch my own private area, which had no wounds.
Is there still a possibility of contracting an infection?
3.
I read that if there are no symptoms within three months, it is considered safe.
If I am unable to confirm my status, how can I prevent transmitting anything to my family?
4.
If I showered before and after the encounter and then took another shower upon returning home, is there still a possibility of contracting an infection?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/30

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello:
1.
Is it possible to contract genital warts if the massage therapist only performed acupressure and manual stimulation? --> If the other person has the HPV virus, it is possible, but the risk is lower than with sexual intercourse.
2.
I touched the therapist's breasts and external genitalia (only touching the surface, did not penetrate, and did not feel any lumps).
My fingers had abrasions but no bleeding, and there were small cuts under my nails.
I only used the pads of my fingers to touch my own genital area, which had no wounds.
Is there still a possibility of infection? --> Yes, there is a possibility.
3.
I read that if there are no symptoms within three months, it is considered safe.
How can I prevent transmission to family members if I cannot be certain? --> It is normal; avoid close contact and practice safe sex.
4.
If I showered before and after the encounter and then showered again after returning home, is there still a possibility of infection? --> This will reduce the risk of infection, but it is not 100% effective.

Reply Date: 2022/09/30

More Info

When it comes to the transmission of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), understanding the modes of transmission and the associated risks is crucial. HPV is primarily transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, particularly during sexual activities. The virus can infect the genital area, mouth, and throat, and it is important to note that HPV can be present even when an infected person shows no symptoms.

1. Risk of Transmission in a Massage Parlor: In the scenario you described, where there is only external touching and no penetration, the risk of contracting HPV is relatively low. HPV typically requires direct contact with infected skin or mucous membranes. If the massage involved only external touching and no visible lesions or warts were present, the likelihood of transmission is minimal. However, if there are micro-abrasions or cuts on the skin, the risk could increase slightly, as the virus may enter through these openings.

2. Touching with Minor Skin Injuries: You mentioned having minor skin injuries on your fingers. While HPV can potentially enter through broken skin, the risk remains low if there are no visible warts or lesions on the other person. The presence of micro-abrasions does increase the risk slightly, but it is essential to consider the overall context. If the other person is HPV-positive and has no visible symptoms, there is still a chance of transmission, albeit a small one.

3. Monitoring Symptoms and Family Safety: The three-month window you referenced is often discussed in the context of monitoring for symptoms. HPV can remain dormant for years without causing any symptoms, and many people clear the virus naturally without ever knowing they were infected. If you have not developed any symptoms such as warts or unusual changes in your genital area after three months, the likelihood of having contracted HPV is lower. To prevent potential transmission to family members, practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing and avoiding sharing personal items, is advisable.

4. Post-Contact Hygiene: Washing thoroughly after any potential exposure is a good practice. While washing does not guarantee the removal of all pathogens, it significantly reduces the risk of transmission. If you washed both before and after the encounter, the risk of carrying the virus to others is further minimized.

In summary, while there is a theoretical risk of contracting HPV through the scenarios you described, the actual risk remains low, especially if there are no visible symptoms or lesions. Regular check-ups and monitoring for any changes in your health are advisable. If you have concerns about HPV or any other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), consulting a healthcare provider for testing and guidance is the best course of action. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and health history.

Similar Q&A

Understanding the Risk of HPV Infection After a Massage Encounter

Hello Dr. Liu, I recently visited a personal massage studio where a lady provided a service that involved manual stimulation to ejaculation. However, since returning, I have been feeling very anxious, as I am concerned about the possibility of contracting an infection. I would ...

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology
It's unlikely! Infection can only occur through sexual contact.

Am I at Risk for STDs After a Recent Massage Parlor Visit?

Hello, doctor. About two weeks ago, I received a hand job at a massage parlor (without a condom). Is there a risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (such as HPV)? I would appreciate your clarification. Thank you.

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Opportunity

Can You Get Genital Warts from a Massage Parlor Experience?

Hello, Dr. Hsu: Here's the situation. Recently, I visited a sensual massage parlor where I received a massage. Throughout the process, the attendant used her hands to help me achieve ejaculation. Afterward, she wiped my glans with a tissue. Before the massage began, she aske...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Concerned Abel: Hello, as long as the various massage or cleaning products you use do not contain the human papillomavirus (HPV), you will not be infected. Conversely, if live viral strains are present and come into contact with mucous membranes or skin, infection is possible. No...

Risk of HPV Infection from Massage: Understanding Cauliflower Warts

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question. One time at a massage parlor, during the massage, I was touched on the technician's breasts and genital area (through lace panties), and he also licked my nipples (for less than 10 seconds) before I asked him to stop. I was also...

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
Further observation and follow-up.