Molluscum source

[trainswelder]

Recently, my girlfriend contracted Molluscum Contagiosum. She had about 15 pea sized growths on her pubic area. We refrained from sex as long as we could. After a month, we had sex. Seven days later, I had a growth of molluscum appear on my pubic area. I only had one about the size of a pin head which went away after about six weeks. Most of hers are gone except for three growths that are still larger than mine ever were even though they've decreased in size. She's had them going on four months now. She says that she received these from me. Even though mine came after hers (after sex) Is this remotely possible?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Most mollusca cases I see, including those in the groins of adults, are not contracted from anyone.  In your case, I am skeptical that the bump you had was a molluscum at all.  7 days is in general far too short for you to have contracted in from her.  It was probably just a blocked pore that you would have ignored if you weren't focused on molluscum.  I don't see why she would think she got them from you.  I suggest she have hers treated, and that both of you be checked to be sure you either have or don't have them, and that you're treated if you do.  No need and no point to complicate your relationship over this.

Take care.

Dr. Rockoff