HPV: Concerns About Recurrence and Transmission to Your Baby

Cauliflower issue

Hello, doctor.
I had genital warts in 2009, which were treated successfully, but they recurred in 2012 and were treated again.
It has been three years since then, and I would like to know if there are still viruses in my body after treatment.
I have heard that the body can automatically clear the virus within two years, but I have also heard that even if symptoms are gone, the virus can still hide in the body.
I am very worried.
After three years, can I consider myself cured? However, I am puzzled as to why I had a recurrence three years after the first treatment.
I am certain that it was not a reinfection because I have been very careful about hygiene, and my partner is also fixed, so is it possible for genital warts to recur after such a long time? My husband has never been infected by me, so does that mean I no longer have the virus in my body, or could there be a long incubation period? In 2013, I had an HPV genotype test that came back negative, but I am unsure if the test included the virus that causes genital warts.
I have found so many conflicting opinions online that it only makes me more anxious.
Now that I have had a baby through a cesarean section, I did not have any recurrences during my pregnancy, even though people say that immunity is lower during pregnancy.
Does this mean I am cured? I am very worried that there might still be a virus in my body that could accidentally infect my baby.
The other day, after taking a shower, I cleaned my baby's mouth (using a gauze-covered finger), and although I washed my hands with soap before doing it, I am still very concerned that this action could transmit the virus to my baby.
I washed my hands after cleaning my private area, fearing that I might have transferred the virus to my baby's mouth, even though I had already washed my hands.
I usually clean my baby during the day, but that day I noticed a thick coating on his tongue, and after my shower, I immediately cleaned it.
Now I regret it and am so worried that I might have infected him.
I have been thinking about this issue for days and can't sleep.
It's really distressing.
If my hands did have the genital warts virus, would washing them remove it? Ever since I got this disease, I have felt very dirty, and even after so long, I still feel like this is an incurable illness.
I am close to developing depression, and now that I have a baby, I am even more worried about whether I might transmit it to him in daily life.
Please help me clarify these concerns.
Thank you very much; I am almost at my breaking point over this issue.
I appreciate you.

Zhen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/22

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, the lesion from 2012 could potentially be a recurrence or a reinfection.
The primary mode of transmission is through sexual contact, while other indirect contact methods you mentioned are less likely.
Currently, there are tests available to check for HPV using a chip assay, and vaccination can also provide prevention.
It is recommended to adhere to appropriate screening, preventive measures, and safe sexual practices, and to have regular check-ups with a physician.
Most cases do not lead to serious long-term complications.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2015/08/22

More Info

Understanding HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and its implications, especially concerning pregnancy and potential transmission to your baby, can be quite complex and often causes anxiety for many individuals. Let's break down your concerns and provide clarity based on current medical knowledge.

Firstly, it's important to understand that HPV is a very common virus, with many strains. Some strains are classified as high-risk due to their association with certain cancers, while others are low-risk and can cause conditions like genital warts (also known as condylomata acuminata). The fact that you had genital warts in the past and have since been treated is significant. After treatment, many individuals can clear the virus from their bodies, but this process can vary from person to person.

Regarding your concern about whether the virus remains in your body after treatment, it's essential to note that while many people do clear the virus naturally within two years, some may have persistent infections. This persistence does not always mean active disease or that symptoms will recur. In your case, since you have not experienced any recurrence of warts for three years, it is possible that your body has successfully cleared the virus. However, it's also possible for the virus to remain dormant in the body and reactivate later, which can happen due to various factors, including stress or a weakened immune system.

You mentioned that you are worried about transmitting the virus to your baby, especially after cleaning your baby's mouth. HPV is primarily transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, particularly during sexual activity. The risk of transmission through casual contact, such as cleaning a baby's mouth after washing your hands, is considered very low. Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water significantly reduces any potential risk of transmission. The virus does not survive long on surfaces and is unlikely to be transmitted in the manner you described.

As for your concerns about your husband, if he has not shown any signs of infection and you have maintained good hygiene practices, it is likely that he has not contracted the virus from you. The immune system plays a crucial role in controlling HPV, and many individuals can remain asymptomatic while their immune system keeps the virus in check.

Regarding your mental health, it's understandable to feel anxious about HPV, especially as a new parent. The stigma surrounding sexually transmitted infections can contribute to feelings of shame or fear. It might be beneficial to speak with a healthcare professional about your concerns, as they can provide reassurance and support. Counseling or support groups can also be helpful in managing anxiety related to health issues.

In conclusion, while HPV can be concerning, especially with a history of genital warts, the likelihood of transmitting the virus to your baby through the actions you described is very low. Your body may have cleared the virus, and maintaining good hygiene practices will further reduce any risk. If you have ongoing concerns, consider discussing them with your healthcare provider, who can offer personalized advice and reassurance. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many people share similar worries about HPV and its implications.

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