HPV Transmission Risks Through Oral Sex: Key Insights

I would like to inquire about oral infections related to HPV?

Dear Dr.
Cheng,
About a month ago, I performed oral sex on a friend.
Although his genitalia appeared normal, I later read various articles and discovered that even without visible abnormalities, there is still a risk of HPV infection (as long as he is a carrier).
Clinically, it is not possible to confirm HPV infection without visible lesions.
I have regretted this decision and have been paying close attention to my health since then.
Two weeks after the oral sex, I experienced a sore throat (along with symptoms of a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing, which I believe were due to a cold).
After seeing a doctor and taking medication, I recovered.
Based on my research and the doctor's response regarding oral HPV, I learned that "if there is a sore throat, inflammation, or a foreign body sensation two to three weeks after oral sex, and symptoms do not improve after one to two weeks of treatment, there may be a risk of contracting genital warts." Additionally, "the infectiousness of visible lesions on the genitalia is about 90%, and even with condom use during oral sex, there remains a high risk of transmission."
Given the above circumstances:
1.
Since my partner had no visible lesions and I recovered after taking medication, should I still be concerned about the risk of oral infection with genital warts? Every time the doctor examined my throat, I mentioned it might be due to the weather change and a cold, but after using a tongue depressor, the doctor only said, "It's a cold, inflammation," so it should be fine, right? Or is it possible that the information I found regarding oral infections is not entirely accurate?
2.
The clinical likelihood of contracting oral genital warts should be low, right? Many urologists and gynecologists have pointed out in their writings that the oral cavity is not a suitable environment for HPV growth.
However, I believe oral health issues should still be addressed by an ENT specialist!
Finally, I deeply appreciate your response.
I apologize for the lengthy message.
This was my first sexual experience, and I plan to get vaccinated once everything is clear, then consider developing a stable relationship with a fixed sexual partner for peace of mind!

Naco, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/22

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if the doctor has examined the oral cavity and found no significant issues, it is advisable to monitor the situation without excessive worry.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/02/22

More Info

Understanding the transmission risks of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) through oral sex is crucial, especially for individuals who may have engaged in sexual activities without full awareness of the associated risks. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be transmitted through various forms of sexual contact, including oral sex.
1. Transmission Risks: HPV can be transmitted even when the infected partner shows no visible signs or symptoms. This is because the virus can reside in the mucous membranes and skin, and it can be shed even in the absence of lesions. While the risk of transmission through oral sex is generally lower compared to vaginal or anal intercourse, it is still significant. Certain high-risk HPV types, particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18, are associated with oropharyngeal cancers. Therefore, even if your partner did not exhibit any visible lesions, there remains a possibility of transmission.

2. Symptoms and Diagnosis: After engaging in oral sex, it is common to experience throat irritation or symptoms resembling a cold, such as nasal congestion and sneezing. These symptoms can often be attributed to viral infections unrelated to HPV. However, if you experience persistent symptoms such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or a feeling of something stuck in your throat, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, recommend further testing to rule out HPV-related conditions.

3. Risk of Oral HPV Infection: The likelihood of developing oral HPV infection or warts (commonly referred to as "cauliflower" lesions) is relatively low, especially if you did not have any open wounds or cuts in your mouth during the encounter. Research indicates that the oral cavity is not as conducive to HPV growth as the genital area. However, it is essential to remain vigilant and monitor any changes in your oral health.

4. Vaccination: Given your concerns and the fact that this was your first sexual experience, it is a wise decision to consider getting the HPV vaccine. The vaccine is effective in preventing infection from the most common high-risk HPV types and can significantly reduce the risk of developing HPV-related cancers in the future. It is recommended for both males and females, ideally before the onset of sexual activity, but it can still be beneficial even after becoming sexually active.

5. Consulting Specialists: If you have ongoing concerns about your oral health or potential HPV infection, consulting an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist is advisable. They can provide specialized care and guidance regarding any symptoms you may be experiencing and can perform any necessary diagnostic procedures.

In conclusion, while the risk of HPV transmission through oral sex exists, the absence of visible lesions and your recovery from throat symptoms suggest that the likelihood of infection may be low. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Regular check-ups, open communication with sexual partners, and vaccination are key components of maintaining sexual health. If you have any further concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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