How can I protect myself?

First of all, thanks for answering my previous questions - I really appreciate it.   I have one more question, though.

My partner has been diagnosed with hpv and will have 3 lisons removed tomorrow.  From my reading I understand that, while we can never be totally sure, around 6 months after the lisons have cleared up most people will not be infectious.

We have had unprotected sex (within our long-term monogamous relationship) so it's likely I have the virus too, isn't it?

  I plan on getting the Gardasil vaccine next month as an extra protection, but that also takes 6 months to give me immunity. Also I know that condoms don't offer complete protection (as proof, both of us have been very careful with this in the past).

I'm wondering if we should use condoms for the next 6 months or so?  Will it actually make much of a difference or should I assume I already have the virus as well, after being together for 3 years? (I've been checked by a doctor yesterday and in the past and have not had any visable signs or abnormal cells in my previous  pap smears).

Thanks againg for being so helpful.

[Mr_Guy]

Well, i think it's safe to assume you have the virus. But, it was likely you were going to get it sooner or later (80% of the population does at some point). Use the condoms until you have had at least 6-8 months of no reoccurence. But, since you both have it now, you can't keep passing it back and forth. And, since you've pretty much been infected, I'm not sure how much the gardasil shot will work. I say its just a waste of money now since it works best in ppl who've never had sex (which is why they market to younger teens).

Do what you feel is right for you.

[tweet805]

I've been advised that since the Gardasil vaccine protects against 4 types of hpv then I should get it (we don't know if my partner or I have types 16 or 18 since it's usually symptomless in men).  I know it's a substantial cost, but I think it'll make me feel safer.

Thanks for your advice, I really appreciate it.