Ways To Protect Your Partner From a HPV Outbreak
HPV (human papilloma virus) can cause warts in or around the penis or rectum. In girls the warts can be inside the body on the cervix or vagina where they can’t be seen. Sometimes they may be outside on the body, but are too small to be seen at all. The warts usually do not hurt and depending on the type of HPV there may not be any symptoms.
HPV is transmitted through skin to skin contact. There are ways to help prevent the transmission of HPV with your partner with the first and most obvious abstaining from sex. Condoms may be used while having sex, however, they only reduce the risk of transmission. HPV infection can infect the male and the female genitals that are covered by a condom, as well as the areas not covered by a condom. Regardless, a latex condom should be used on the penis during vaginal or anal sex as well as if oral sex is performed on the male. The female can also use a polyurethane condom for protection during vaginal sex.
There is a piece of flat latex that is placed over the vagina, called a dental dam. This can be used when performing oral sex on the female partner. If two females are engaging in oral sex, then both should use the dental dam to help prevent transmission of the HPV.
To help prevent the spreading of the disease you should limit your sexual partners and avoid having sex with partners who may be a high risk. Always encourage discussion with your sexual partner about their sexual history and medical conditions.
Keep your genitals area clean and dry.
Females should not use a douche which can actually increase a female’s risk of contracting STDs and it may flush bacteria higher into the genital tract. Also do not use scented soaps or bath oils as this may cause more irritation to the warts.
If any person suspects that they may have been exposed to HPV it is extremely important for them to be treated by a doctor. Remember HPV does not always have any signs or symptoms. There are some non-prescription treatments available for HPV, however, it is very important to been seen and seek the advise of a regular medical physician. Do not try to treat any of the genital warts on your own. Many HPV infections may disappear on their own, however, you cannot predict whether or not if your genital warts will continue to grow or go away. That is why it is always better to be treated immediately, rather than risk further complications in the future.