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Q: 

My girlfriend has HPV. Should I be worried if we aren't having sex? and what about when the time comes to have sex?

By May 15, 2010 - 10:34pm
 
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The question really tells all.. Any info would help. Thank you.

Add a Comment7 Comments

Hi,
HPV can be spread through sexual contact, including skin-to- skin sexual contact, depending on the type of HPV, and if she has active breakouts. Many couples are able to use condoms and not spread the virus.

Do you know what type of HPV she has been diagnosed with?

We can send you some more information that is more tailored to your specific question.

It is great that you are asking ahead of time, and wanting to be safe!

May 16, 2010 - 3:25am
(reply to Alison Beaver)

Thanks for the help. I don't know what kind actually. Fyi, I'm a girl so condoms...not really helpful.

May 16, 2010 - 11:37am
(reply to Nikki knows)

Let us know if you find out what type of HPV. If you aren't able to find out, let us know that as well...we can provide some helpful information.

Sorry about the condom remark; I try not to assume that couples are heterosexual. Have you tried a female condom or dental dam? It actually covers more area of the vagina and vulva, and dental dams are super sensitive. Male condoms can actually be cut in half length-wise, and placed over the vulva for oral-stimulation, and protects against many STDs.

Let us know if you have any more questions!

May 16, 2010 - 8:36pm
(reply to Alison Beaver)

She doesn't know what type of HPV she has. She said her doctor told her that skin contact wouldn't be harmful to another person, and not to worry about transferring it, I don't know if that helps or anything.

It's okay about the remark. Sorry if I sounded short or rude. I have not tried those things, thanks for the suggestion. Is one better than the other?

May 18, 2010 - 12:51pm
(reply to Nikki knows)

Hi,
You didn't sound short or rude at all about the condom remark...I'm glad you said something!

Dental dams are more difficult to find, and are more expensive, but many couples have said they like them better because you can feel more. Another thing you can do is make your own by cutting a male condom lengthwise.

If her doctor said that her HPV is not contagious with skin-to-skin contact, then that is great news. Many woman are diagnosed with HPV that is not a high-risk strain, and they do not have genital warts. HPV can be suppressed by one's own immune system, and the HPV no longer shows up on tests, and is most likely not transmittable from person-to-person.

May 18, 2010 - 1:14pm
(reply to Alison Beaver)

Okay, great! :) Thank you for all of the helpful information!

May 18, 2010 - 4:25pm
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