[Question #10297] Oral HPV Risk

24 months ago

Good afternoon experts.

I had an additional question that I forgot to ask about in my previous post.

I have cervical HPV high risk non 16 or 18. I wanted to know what the chances are of my partner contracting oral HPV if he used his fingers on me digitally and then say licked his fingers or put them in his mouth. Is this a common mode of transmission?

Thank you!

Edward W. Hook M.D.

24 months ago

Welcome back to the Forum. It's been two months since our prior interaction so I review the earlier thread. In my original reply I said "Auto inoculation of HPV from one site on your own body to anther, like transfer of HPV infection to others with your hands appears to be uncommon." If anything this is an understatement =. Please do not worry about the possibility of your partner contracting HPV through transfer of your genital secretions from your vagina to his mouth on his hands. For all practical purposes, STIs are not transmitted from person to person through transfer of secretions on the hands or fingers. No cause for concern. EWH---

24 months ago

Thank you Dr.

So there's no probable risk of him getting Oral HPV from doing that?

Edward W. Hook M.D.

24 months ago

Correct. EWH---

24 months ago

Thank you Dr. If I may ask, why would this be an inefficient mode of transmission? Just so I can better understand.

Edward W. Hook M.D.

24 months ago

My answer was based on two lines of evidence.

First and most importantly many, many careful scientific studies has shown that HPV is not transmitted through indirect contact, including during mutual masturbation. This is the reason that virtually all experts are in agreement that transfer of secretions from one person to another does not lead to HPV infection.

Secondly, the mechanics of transmission are such that the friction involve in DIRECT contact with an HPV infected site appears to increase the likelihood of transmission. With masturbation followed by putting fingers in the mouth which might have vaginal secretions on them, the friction component is missing.

As you know, we provide up to three responses to each client's questions. This is my 3rd response and therefore the thread will be closed shortly without further responses. I hope the information I have provided has been helpful. Please don't worry. EWH

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