Need information to make an informed decision

Good morning.  Some background info first; I have developed an incredible friendship w/someone I met on line.  In fact, I recently flew to visit her and things went great.  She recently informed me that she has HPV but the kind that produces the abnormal cell changes not the genital worts.  She also told me that in the last year and a half her exams have come back fine.  She is due for her next exam in the next couple of months.  Here are some of my concerns.  I've been doing a lot of research on-line but still confused so here are my questions:

1-Is it true that there is a potential for the body to get rid of the virus after 3 years?
2-What are the chances of me getting it if there are no warts/or abnormal cell changes present during intercourse?
3-Assuming that I do get it, am I candidate for penile cancer?
4-If I do get it, will I be a carrier for life and infect others?
5-Is there really work/research being conducted for a vaccine?

Thank you so much for your assistance.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Good questions all.  For more information, go to the articles/fact sheets link at the top of this forum, and perhaps also to others such as www.cdc.gov/std.

Background:  Everybody gets HPV.  If you have had 4 or more lifetime sex partners, there is at least a 50% chance you have already been infected.  Getting HPV isn't desirable, but it is normal.  Brief responses to your questions:

1) The immune system clears up most HPV infections in several months; it usually doesn't take 3 years.

2) You won't get warts.  Since her cervix has been treated and her follow-up tests are negative, the chances are her infection has completely resolved.  Or, if she is still carrying the virus, it likely is in small enough amounts that she won't transmit it.

3) If you catch HPV from her, nothing will happen; you won't notice any abnormality now or ever.  Your risk of penile cancer might be a little higher than otherwise, but it is such a rare disease anyway that you should just disregard this possibility.

4) No, as noted above, if you get infected it probably will clear up on its own within a few months.

5) Yes, research on anti-HPV vaccines is very promising.  One or more effective vaccines likely will be on the market in roughly 2-3 years.

Bottom line:  If you and your friend are interested in starting a sexual relationship, HPV should not affect that decision in the least bit.

Good luck--  HHH, MD