HPV TRANSMISSION

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and it spreads through sexual contact. This can occur during vaginal and anal sex, as well as oral sex or skin-to-skin contact with the sexual organs. Direct physical contact between two partners' sexual organs is usually enough for the virus to pass from one person to another. This is why the use of condoms or other barrier methods do not completely prevent HPV, as these methods may not cover the entirety of the sexual organs.

The risk of HPV transmission is proportional to the number of partners, however, sexual intercourse with even one person can pose a risk. HPV can be transmitted not only through sexual intercourse, but through all types of sexual contact. This can occur through kissing, rubbing, or touching the sexual organs by hand.

Horizontal transmission of HPV involves different routes, such as fomites (objects that can transfer from person to person), fingers, and non-sexual skin contact. The risk of HPV infection transmission through tools used in obstetric examination rooms has also been considered.

HPVs are very resistant viruses and are resistant to heat and dryness. They can retain 30% of their infectivity even after being dried for a week. The viruses can survive for days on clothing, frequently used gynecological tools, fomites, and other surfaces. This increases the importance of public health and hygiene practices.

Self-inoculation has been mentioned as one of the potential ways of HPV transmission. This has been detailed in studies on genital warts (low-risk HPV) in girls who have not had sexual intercourse and children without a history of sexual abuse.

Vertical transmission between mother and baby is another way of HPV transmission. This can occur through contact with the mother's genital mucosa during natural birth, or through amniotic fluid or the placenta.

While waterborne HPV transmission has not been proven, HPV DNA has been detected in water habitats. HPV DNA has been found in studies conducted in public swimming areas and rivers.

Based on these data, it is seen that HPV does not only spread sexually, but also has the potential to spread in different ways. Therefore, it should be remembered that HPV can be transmitted and warts can form outside of sexual activity. It is always necessary to adhere to hygiene rules and be careful about the cleanliness of tools used during gynecological examinations.

As mentioned above, yes it does. We see transmissions through commonly used wax, razor, eyebrow thread. Recent studies have reported HPV transmission due to unhygienic conditions during gynecological examinations and transvaginal ultrasound.