As one of the classic sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), condyloma acuminatum is certainly contagious. Most cases are caused by infection with HPV-6 or HPV-11. There is a high viral load of HPV on the surface of the warts, which can be transmitted through direct or indirect sexual contact. The infection is primarily concentrated in the areas of contact, such as the private parts of both men and women, and even the perianal area or anal canal. Occasionally, due to specific behavioral habits, it may also appear in areas such as the oral cavity.

The primary route of transmission for condyloma acuminatum is direct sexual contact; this is the mainstream pathway. Regarding indirect contact—such as staying in hotels, sharing towels, sharing toilets, or visiting public bathhouses—the probability of being infected with condyloma acuminatum is extremely low, although it remains a theoretical possibility. Sometimes, when we encounter both male and female partners coming to the clinic for condyloma acuminatum examinations, we might intentionally slightly overstate the probability of indirect transmission, primarily to avoid triggering conflicts or disputes within the consultation room.

Once a diagnosis of condyloma acuminatum (genital warts) is confirmed, we also recommend simultaneous screening for other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as blood tests for syphilis and HIV. Since these are all STDs, getting tested provides peace of mind; if the results are negative, all the better, and if positive, proactive treatment can begin. This is especially important for individuals with perianal condyloma acuminatum or those who engage in same-sex sexual behavior; if testing is available, it should be done whenever possible. This is because male-to-male sexual transmission plays a very significant role in the transmission routes of HIV in China; testing serves to protect both the patient and the physician. Furthermore, in patients with HIV, the resulting decrease in immunity may cause condyloma acuminatum to grow more extensively, more rapidly, and more aggressively, which may prolong the treatment cycle.

When a person is diagnosed with condyloma acuminatum, we usually recommend that any sexual partners from the past three months also undergo an examination, primarily due to the highly contagious nature of the condition. However, while some people are able to do this, others find it difficult, often because they truly do not know how to broach the subject with their partner. Regardless, considering the infectivity of condyloma acuminatum, one must find a way to persuade the partner to get checked. If lesions are present, they should be treated; if not, they should be followed up with observation. This prevents a situation where, after one's own successful treatment, the partner develops an outbreak, leading to mutual re-infection between the two parties, which makes the situation even more complicated.

The HPV virus associated with condyloma acuminatum remains only on the surface of the skin and mucous membranes and does not enter the bloodstream; there is no need for excessive anxiety regarding this point. Furthermore, condyloma acuminatum is definitely curable, and the HPV virus can be completely cleared from the body. You must have confidence.

Keep going