Can you get HPV without sexual intercourse?

Nives Šikanić Dugić

Nives Šikanić Dugić

primarius, MD, spec. gynaecologist, MSc

Dear doctor,

I have a problem even though I am a virgin. At the gynaecological examination, a gynaecologist noticed changes in the vaginal mucosa that the gynaecologist suspects to be condyloma, i.e. suspicion of HPV virus infection by oral route, which becomes dangerous with high-risk types. I only practiced oral sex in which I satisfied my partner, I did not have any other type of sexual relations so no test can be performed, for example a PAP test. This is all accompanied by a discharge, and also swabs cannot be done because I am a virgin. The gynaecologist says that a yellow-green discharge is a normal occurrence, which has been going on for a long time and is sometimes brown. If it is some kind of infection, it can get complicated, and I have not received any therapy. I really do not understand. The gynaecologist just said not to worry because he doesn’t think there is cause for concern, but I am still scared, do you have any suggestion what to do?

Thank you for your reply.

 

Your gynaecologist suspects HPV infection due to suspect condyloma on genital mucosa, which means that he is not completely sure that it is a condyloma and that HPV infection has not been proven. However, just because you have not had sex and there has been no penetration, does not mean you cannot be infected with HPV. For the transmission of the virus, only skin-to-skin or mucosal contact is sufficient. I assume that your gynaecologist will monitor the changes in the genitals and introduce local therapy for condyloma, if necessary. As for the increased yellow-green discharge, a vaginal swab can be done without damaging the hymen, since you have not had sexual intercourse, and according to the results of the swab, therapy can be administered.