The doctor, from the Medimar International Hospital, solves the most frequent doubts of patients when they are diagnosed with an infection by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV, papilloma virus):
How, when and from whom did I get it?
HPV (papilloma virus) is transmitted from one person to another by skin-to-skin contact in the genital area, even without sexual intercourse. Most people have or will have HPV (papillomavirus) infection. This does not produce any symptoms, so it can go unnoticed. Most of these infections will clear up in one to two years, without causing any problems that require treatment. The virus is not spread by breathing, shaking hands, or touching any object whatsoever.
Should I stop having sex or use a condom with my partner?
It is not necessary to stop having sex with your partner because the virus is transmitted between sexual partners, and by the time it is detected the virus is already shared with your partner. Similarly, in a monogamous relationship, it is not necessary to use a condom with your partner to prevent infection.
Does having HPV (papillomavirus) mean that I am going to have cancer?
Not necessarily, having HPV (papilloma virus) does not mean having a precursor lesion, in fact most HPV (papilloma virus) infections end up disappearing without causing any type of lesion and without any treatment.
Can you get it from oral sex?
HPV (papilloma virus) can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and possibly oral sex. Some oral cancers are related to high-risk HPV types. However, transmission of HPV by this route is considered very rare.
Can HPV (papilloma virus) affect pregnancy?
Pregnancy does not significantly alter the progression or prognosis in case of an HPV infection. HPV does not affect a woman’s ability to become pregnant.
How can I avoid having HPV or passing it on to someone else?
Use condoms in long-term, non-monogamous relationships, although condoms do not offer complete protection against HPV (papillomavirus), as they do not cover the entire genital area. Limit the number of sexual partners or avoid contact with a partner who has warts in the genital area. Encourage your partner to have regular checkups.
What should I tell my partner?
This has to be a personal decision, always remembering: That most adults will present the infection at some point in their lives. That it is impossible to know which of the two parts of the couple transmitted the infection. That the person may have been exposed to the virus months or years before, in a previous relationship. That there is no test to determine if a man has HPV.
Does my partner cheat on me?
Finding out that you have HPV (papilloma virus) can cause fear, uncertainty, embarrassment, anger, and confusion. Feeling these kinds of emotions is normal, but HPV infection in no way means infidelity on the part of your partner, nor is it beneficial to blame them in the event of their existence. It is important first of all to seek information.