HPV and Its Impact on Your Health: A Comprehensive Guide

Cauliflower problem

Hello, I have questions regarding genital warts.
Last September, my husband developed a wart about one centimeter in size at the base of his penis.
He underwent electrosurgery and applied medication, but subsequently, a small wart appeared in the middle, and now the area that was previously treated has recurred.
Despite using over $3,000 worth of medication, there has been no change, and we are now considering laser treatment.
There is a lot of information online, and I'm unsure which is correct.
When could he have been infected? He denies any infidelity; is that true? Currently, we are using condoms during intercourse, but I am very anxious.
I had a Pap smear afterward, and the results were normal, which suggests that if my husband recovers, I should be fine too, right? How long without a recurrence is considered safe? Is it true that once infected, it is a lifelong issue? What if I am currently infected? Is it too late for me to get the HPV vaccine? Can I still test for HPV types 11 or 16 now? I have so many questions and feel like this issue will follow us for a lifetime; it's driving me crazy.
Regardless of whether I ask the female doctor who performed the Pap smear or the male doctor who did the electrosurgery, their answers seem to suggest that it’s inevitable or that they are indifferent, making it feel like profit is their main concern.
Please help clarify these issues, thank you.

Hengzhi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/18

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, it seems you are female.
Regarding genital warts, if both parties have not had any lesions for more than three months, it can be considered healed.
Note: There are very few individuals who remain symptom-free for over a year.
As for the vaccine, it is advisable to consult an obstetrician-gynecologist who has more experience.
Regarding the virus and cervical examinations, they can be performed and easily tested.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Responses on the internet should only be used as a reference; it is still necessary to seek medical care at healthcare facilities.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/01/18

More Info

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that can have significant implications for both men and women. Understanding HPV, its transmission, and its potential health impacts is crucial for managing your health and making informed decisions. Here’s a comprehensive guide addressing your concerns and questions regarding HPV, particularly in relation to genital warts (often referred to as "cauliflower" due to their appearance) and cervical health.

Understanding HPV and Its Transmission
1. Transmission of HPV: HPV is primarily transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It is important to note that HPV can be transmitted even when an infected person has no visible signs or symptoms. While there are over 200 types of HPV, not all are considered high-risk. Types 6 and 11 are commonly associated with genital warts, while types 16 and 18 are linked to cervical cancer.

2. Infection and Symptoms: Many individuals who contract HPV may not develop any symptoms, and in many cases, the immune system can clear the virus naturally within two years. However, some strains can lead to persistent infections, which may result in genital warts or, in high-risk cases, lead to cancer over time. If your partner has visible warts, it is likely that they are infected with HPV, and while they may not acknowledge it, the presence of warts is a clear indication of an active infection.

3. Recurrence of Warts: Genital warts can recur after treatment. This is because the virus can remain dormant in the body even after the warts are removed. If your partner has had warts treated but they have returned, it indicates that the virus is still present. Treatment options include topical medications, cryotherapy, laser treatment, and surgical removal. It’s essential for your partner to follow up with a healthcare provider for ongoing management.

Your Health and Preventive Measures
1. Cervical Health and Screening: Since you have undergone a Pap smear that returned negative results, it suggests that there are no abnormal cells in your cervix at this time. However, it does not guarantee that you are free from HPV, especially if your partner is still infected. Regular screenings are vital, and it is recommended to continue having Pap smears every three years or as advised by your healthcare provider.

2. Vaccination: The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections from the most common high-risk types of HPV, including 16 and 18. If you have not yet been vaccinated, it is advisable to do so, even if you are already sexually active. The vaccine can still provide protection against types you have not been exposed to. It is generally recommended to get vaccinated before becoming sexually active, but it can still be beneficial at any age.

3. Safe Practices: Using condoms can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, but they do not provide complete protection since HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom. Open communication with your partner about sexual health is crucial. If your partner is undergoing treatment, it may be wise to abstain from sexual activity until they are fully cleared of the virus.

Emotional and Psychological Considerations
It is understandable to feel anxious about the implications of HPV on your health and relationship. The stigma surrounding sexually transmitted infections can be overwhelming, but it is important to remember that HPV is extremely common. Many people will contract it at some point in their lives, and most will not develop serious health issues.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, consider seeking support from a healthcare professional or a counselor who specializes in sexual health. They can provide you with accurate information, help you navigate your feelings, and assist you in making informed decisions about your health and relationship.

Conclusion
In summary, HPV is a common virus with varying implications for health. Understanding its transmission, the importance of vaccination, and maintaining regular health screenings are key components of managing your health. Open communication with your partner and healthcare providers will empower you to take control of your health and well-being. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Human Papillomavirus: Myths, Transmission, and Treatment Options

Dear Director, I apologize for interrupting you during your busy schedule. I would like to inquire about human papillomavirus (HPV) - perhaps my search skills are lacking, as I cannot find relevant information about this disease online. Could you please provide me with some infor...

Dr. Huang Mingde reply Family Medicine
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to genital warts and cervical cancer. This virus can infect anyone, but it is particularly associated with cervical issues. Currently, the best prevention methods include avoiding unprotected sexual inte...

Understanding HPV Infection: Risks, Treatments, and Expert Advice

Hello: I was infected with genital warts in March and underwent electrosurgical treatment. As of now, in November, it seems stable and hasn't been growing. However, I had a Pap smear and HPV test done the day before yesterday, and the report showed mild inflammation; I am in...

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If there are no clinical symptoms (such as excessive discharge), electrocautery treatment may not be necessary, as it would not be beneficial. It is recommended to undergo regular follow-up examinations instead. If there are financial constraints, receiving the HPV vaccine can be...

Understanding Cauliflower Warts: Transmission Risks and Prevention

I'm sorry, but could you please clarify if my good friend has a genital infection caused by warts? Can it be transmitted through skin contact or saliva?

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a small DNA virus (diameter 55nm) that belongs to the Papovavirus family. There are over a hundred known genotypes of HPV, with more than thirty types capable of infecting the skin and mucous membranes of the human genitalia, leading to various disea...

Understanding HPV Vaccination and Its Effectiveness After Infection

Hello Doctor, I have some questions regarding HPV. I have researched a lot of related information, and it states that if a person is infected with the virus, there is a high chance that the body will clear the virus on its own, and only repeated infections pose a risk of cancer. ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the cervical cancer vaccine is effective in preventing cervical cancer, and the likelihood of contracting HPV through oral sex is low. Wishing you good health.