HPV info

[Joan28]

Hi,
I am a 48 year old female recently diagnosed with HPV after an abnormal PAP test. I last had a PAP about 9 months ago and have had yearly PAP tests since age 18. I have not had an abnormal PAP before.This topic is new to me and after reading a lot of information during the past few days I still have questions. I understand that the virus is common and a part of being sexually active. However, I am trying to understand the timeline. I f I have abnormal cells on my cervix today, when did the virus become active/ reactivated? How long am I contagious to my current partner? His PSA came back the same day at 2.6. Last year it was 1.5. Could HPV be the cause? He is 58 years old and is in good health. He has been under a lot of stress for the past two years and his physical health has suffered.

Ironically, I was not due to have a PAP for several months but was 3 weeks late getting my period and went to discuss that issue with my doctor. During the internal my doctor said I had no evidence of any problems and showed no signs of infection. I thought I might have had a yeast infection. Admittedly I am shocked, afraid and feel "dirty". I have never had an STD before. After I ended previous relationships I had STD testing. I consider it responsible before dating someone new. I feel horrible that I may have transmitted HPV to my partner.

Any help with my questions is appreciated.


This discussion is related to HPV.

[auntiejessi]

Keep in mind that 80% of people will get HPV in their lifetimes.  I know that's a staggering number, but it means that HPV is just pretty darn hard to avoid.  

Think of it as the common cold of STDs.

Aj

[Joan28]

Thanks

[Emma_08]

HPV is a complex topic and unfortunately there is still much confusion about it.  It's really not possible to know when you were exposed to the HPV virus.  You could have had it for years and it just caused changes in your cervical cells.  Usually "high risk" strains of HPV last longer than "low risk" strains, which usually clear within 8-10 months.  It's hard to say how long you will be contagious to your current partner.  It's also possible that he already has the virus and transmitted it to you (he could have had it before you became sexually active, or you could have had it prior to this relationship).  Trying to figure out how you got HPV is pointless-you will probably never have an answer.  HPV really has nothing to do with his PSA results.  Generally, the HPV virus does not cause any serious complications in men.  My advice would be to follow up with this and keep getting regular PAP smears.  Your HPV virus will probably clear on its own and no further treatment will be needed, but you need to keep getting regular PAP smears to make sure this is the case (your doctor might suggest every 6 months instead of yearly to track your progress).  If your PAP smear does not return to normal, your doctor will discuss the best treatment options with you.
Good luck,
Em