HPV Recurrence: Concerns and Vaccination Benefits

Regarding the recurrence rate of HPV?

Hello, Doctor.
About six years ago, I had genital warts in my anal area due to my reckless youth.
At that time, I underwent treatment with electrocautery and topical medications.
I experienced severe itching at night, but over the years, although there have been no visible lesions, I still frequently worry about a recurrence.
I often use my fingers to lubricate and check my anal area.
I would like to ask the doctor: (1) Given that there has been no exposure and it has been six years, is there still a possibility of recurrence of anal warts? (2) I have not yet received the HPV vaccine; would getting vaccinated help prevent recurrence? I have been troubled by these concerns for a long time.
Thank you for taking the time to respond.

Mr. K, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/26

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine

1.
First of all, it is not easy to completely cure genital warts; safe sexual practices and contact isolation are necessary.
2.
The optimal timing for administering the HPV vaccine is before the onset of sexual activity; however, young men and women who are currently sexually active are also encouraged to get vaccinated, as it can help prevent infection or recurrence.

Reply Date: 2023/04/26

More Info

It's understandable to have concerns about HPV and its potential recurrence, especially after experiencing a previous infection. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Possibility of Recurrence After 6 Years: After successfully treating genital warts (caused by HPV), the virus can remain dormant in the body. While many individuals clear the virus naturally over time, some may carry it without any visible symptoms. In your case, since you have not had any visible lesions for six years and have not had any contact with the virus, the likelihood of recurrence is low. However, it's important to note that HPV can be unpredictable. Factors such as a weakened immune system, stress, or other health issues can potentially reactivate the virus. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor your health and address any concerns.

2. Benefits of HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine is designed to prevent infection from the most common and high-risk types of HPV, including those that cause genital warts and various cancers. If you have already been infected with a specific type of HPV, the vaccine will not treat or eliminate that existing infection. However, it can protect you from other types of HPV that you may not have been exposed to yet. Given that you have a history of HPV-related issues, getting vaccinated can be a proactive step in reducing your risk of future infections and related complications. It is generally recommended to receive the vaccine before becoming sexually active, but it can still be beneficial at any age.

In summary, while the chances of recurrence of your previous HPV infection are low after six years without symptoms, it is still essential to maintain regular health check-ups. Additionally, getting vaccinated against HPV can provide protection against other strains of the virus, potentially reducing your risk of future infections and related health issues. If you have further concerns or specific symptoms, please consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and management.

Similar Q&A

Can HPV Vaccine Prevent Recurrence After Treating Genital Warts?

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if someone who has been infected with genital warts and has been treated can still receive the HPV vaccine to prevent recurrence, or is it ineffective since they have already been infected? Thank you for your response.

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the inquirer: 1. If you have already been infected with human papillomavirus (HPV), receiving the quadrivalent HPV vaccine may still provide protection. It can prevent future infections if the original virus type has cleared. 2. Expected effects of the HPV vaccine incl...

Understanding HPV: Vaccine Efficacy and Recurrence Concerns

Dear Dr. Wu, I have an HPV infection in my rectum and anus, and although I am receiving treatment, I frequently experience recurrences. I would like to ask you a few questions based on what I found online regarding the HPV vaccine, which is said to be unable to cure HPV. 1. If ...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
1. The vaccine only targets a limited number of specific viruses that can cause cervical cancer, so it does not reduce the recurrence rate. 2. Complete vaccination provides better protection. 3. The main issue is still the viral strains.

Understanding the Risk of Recurrence After HPV Treatment

Hello, I was diagnosed with genital warts in April last year, completed treatment by the end of September, and received my first dose of the quadrivalent vaccine in October. I finished all three doses of the vaccine by April this year. I have been returning for follow-up visits, ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chance of recurrence is very low, so please rest assured. If possible, an annual check-up is fine. Wishing you good health.

Understanding the Importance of the HPV Vaccine After Treatment

Hello, doctor. On March 2nd, I underwent electrosurgery to remove an unknown type of genital warts. Despite having minimal sexual activity, I still contracted them. I recently read that the vaccine doesn't have a significant effect on preventing recurrence, but I went ahead ...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Theoretically, if a person has already been infected, there is no need to receive the vaccine because, firstly, the body will produce its own antibodies. Secondly, the virus can still enter a latent carrier state, which means there is a possibility of reactivation in the future. ...