dating someone w/HPV - Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Message Board

weepingalone · 04-19-2008, 11:51 AM

I have just found out I have high risk HPV - and that my partner infected me. I still want to date this person - is that safe?

Shshi · 04-19-2008, 07:38 PM

Sure, the damage has aleady been done, so why not? You can't catch it again, once you've had it, or at least not the same strain. As long as you both remain monogamous, you should be okay.

weepingalone · 04-20-2008, 08:14 AM

My doctor says that I shouldn't be so gloom-doom; in a year or so my immune system could take care of the HPV virus - but can my immune system still fight it if I stay with my partner who likely gave me the virus in the first place?

Shshi · 04-20-2008, 08:24 AM

Yes, your immune system can fight off the virus within six months to two years, even if (and especially if) you stay with the same partner. Since it's the same strain that your partner has, you won't be exposed to any different strains in the meantime, and you won't re-catch the same strain from your partner, as your immune system will build up defenses against it.

So, I'd say your prognosis is excellent!

weepingalone · 04-20-2008, 01:55 PM

That sounds reassuring...so if my immune system can fight the virus, then does this mean that I always have the virus? (it simply becomes inactive but can become active at any time?) and is it possible to get different strains from my partner?