Can Using Hotel Towels Lead to Genital Warts?

Q: Can Using Hotel Towels Lead to Genital Warts?

Hello： It is emphasized that the transmission of genital warts primarily occurs through sexual intercourse. <br>If there is no cleaning and contact with the affected area has not been long, a towel that has touched the lesions can come into contact with another person's genital o

Can using hotel towels cause warts?

Yesterday, I used a hotel towel and noticed that it had a hole and some red solid substance on it.
I'm worried that the previous guest might have had a sexually transmitted infection, and the hotel did not wash the towels.
I only realized this halfway through my shower, but it seems I did not wipe my intimate areas.
Could I get genital warts from this? What if I had wiped my intimate areas? Would that increase the risk?

Miss Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/25

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: It is emphasized that the transmission of genital warts primarily occurs through sexual intercourse.
If there is no cleaning and contact with the affected area has not been long, a towel that has touched the lesions can come into contact with another person's genital or perineal area.
Of course, there is a very small possibility, but it is quite difficult for the wart virus to be transmitted through such a route.
Therefore, sexual transmission remains the primary mode of transmission.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2024/04/25

More Info

Using hotel towels can raise concerns about hygiene and the potential transmission of infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as genital warts, which are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). However, the risk of contracting genital warts from using hotel towels is generally considered to be low.

Genital warts are primarily transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. HPV is a virus that can be present in the genital area, and it is most commonly spread through sexual intercourse or intimate contact with an infected person. While HPV can survive on surfaces for a limited time, it is not typically transmitted through inanimate objects like towels. The virus requires direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes to spread effectively.

In your case, since you mentioned that you did not notice any contact with your genital area while using the towel, the likelihood of contracting genital warts is minimal. Even if there was a possibility of contact, the risk remains low because the virus does not survive long on dry surfaces. Additionally, the presence of a hole or red solid on the towel does not necessarily indicate the presence of HPV or any other STI.

If you are concerned about potential exposure to STIs, it is advisable to monitor for any unusual symptoms, such as the appearance of warts or lesions in the genital area, itching, or discomfort. If you notice any of these symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and possible testing.

To further reduce the risk of contracting STIs in the future, consider the following precautions:
1. Use Personal Towels: Whenever possible, bring your own towels when traveling, especially if you are concerned about the cleanliness of hotel linens.

2. Practice Safe Sex: Use condoms or dental dams during sexual activity to reduce the risk of transmitting or contracting STIs.

3. Regular Health Check-ups: Regular screenings and check-ups with a healthcare provider can help detect any STIs early and allow for timely treatment.

4. Vaccination: The HPV vaccine is effective in preventing the strains of HPV that cause most genital warts and certain types of cancer. If you are eligible, consider discussing vaccination with your healthcare provider.

5. Hygiene Practices: Maintain good personal hygiene, especially after using public facilities or shared items. Washing hands thoroughly and avoiding sharing personal items can help reduce the risk of infection.

In summary, while it is understandable to be concerned about the cleanliness of hotel towels, the risk of contracting genital warts from such exposure is low. If you have any ongoing concerns or develop symptoms, seeking medical advice is always a good course of action.

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