Can You Get Genital Warts from Oral Contact with an Infected Partner?

Cauliflower problem

I would like to ask the doctor, if my boyfriend who has genital warts performs oral sex on me (and I have no open wounds), is it possible for me to contract genital warts?

Ms. Tseng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/11

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the transmission of general contact infectious diseases typically occurs through close contact with an infected individual.
If the other person's oral cavity shows no lesions, the likelihood of infection is low.
However, if you are still concerned or experiencing symptoms, it is advisable to consult a physician for examination and diagnosis.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2022/12/11

More Info

Genital warts, caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), can indeed be transmitted through oral contact with an infected partner. When engaging in oral sex with someone who has genital warts, there is a risk of transmission, even if there are no visible lesions or wounds on the receiving partner. HPV is a highly contagious virus, and it can be present in the skin and mucous membranes of an infected individual, even when symptoms are not apparent.

The primary mode of transmission for HPV is through direct skin-to-skin contact, which includes oral, vaginal, and anal sex. If your partner has genital warts, the virus can be present in the area around the warts, and it can be transferred to your mouth or throat during oral sex. This means that if you perform oral sex on a partner with genital warts, you could potentially develop warts in your throat or mouth, although this is less common than genital infections.

It's important to note that while HPV is very common, not everyone who is exposed to the virus will develop warts or other symptoms. The immune system often clears the virus without causing any health issues. However, if you do develop warts, they can appear weeks, months, or even years after exposure, making it difficult to trace the source of the infection.

If you are concerned about potential exposure to HPV or the development of genital warts, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on testing and potential treatment options. Regular check-ups and screenings are essential, especially if you are sexually active with multiple partners or if you have a partner with known HPV infection.

In addition to seeking medical advice, consider discussing vaccination against HPV with your healthcare provider. The HPV vaccine is effective in preventing the strains of the virus that most commonly cause genital warts and certain types of cancer. Vaccination is recommended for preteens but can be beneficial for individuals up to the age of 45.

In summary, while the risk of contracting genital warts through oral contact with an infected partner exists, the likelihood of transmission can vary based on several factors, including the presence of visible warts and the immune response of the exposed individual. If you have concerns or experience any symptoms, it is best to seek medical advice for proper evaluation and management.

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