[Question #7507] Oral hpv

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56 months ago
My girlfriend had a colposcopy 6 weeks ago. We hav been sexually active both vaginal and oral. I’m a male. Should I be concerned about oral hpv? I’m assuming I prob already had/hav it since I’m 41 years old . If so. Wht are some signs and symptoms of oral hpv in males 
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
56 months ago
Welcome to the Forum.  Thanks for your question.  You do not provide much detail on the findings of your girlfriend’s colposcopy but I presume it was related to HPV.  I will direct my initial comments at this topic.  In addition, I would suggest that you look at other exchanges related to HPV that are on this thread. There are thousands and I suspect that many of the questions you have, as well as some you may not have thought about are already addressed.

Let me first provide you with our perspective on HPV infection. Virtually all unvaccinated persons who are sexually active will have HPV, probably on several occasions during their lifespan. Well over 95% of those infections are innocuous problems that go away over time (years) with no meaningful consequence. In women, a small proportion go on to become pre-malignant lesions and a very, very small proportion go on to lead to cancer.  HPV Is even less of a problem for males.  Nearly all HPV infections in men are either asymptomatic or go on to form benign genital warts. I agree with you that you have almost certainly acquired HPV from prior partners and have been exposed from your current partner.  There is no need to change or adjust your current sexual practices. In terms of your own health, the only steps needed are for you to seek dermatological evaluation of any new or unusual appearing penile lesions. As far as oral infections are concerned, as long are you as you are getting regular dental care, your dentist should be looking for what signs of HPV related problems.  Should you notice any unusual appearing lesions in your mouth or throat you should call them to the attention of your dentist. 

I hope that these preliminary comments are helpful to you. We provide up to three responses to each clients questions. I will be happy to clarify anything that is unclear or address a limited number of additional questions in your two follow-ups. 

I hope this helps. EWH
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