Modes of Transmission of the HPV Virus

Dear Ask The Doctor: I was told I had HPV warts, got cervical cells that led to hysterectomy. Am I still contagious? Where and how did I get this.

The cause of genital warts is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This virus is contained in the superficial squamous cells. There are numerous parts of the body lined w/ squamous cells: skin, genitalia, larynx, etc. The cervix, however has 2 parts: the ectocervix (outer, near the vagina) is lined w/ squamous cells; the endocervix (inner, near the uterus) is lined by columnar (shaped like columns) cells. Easy shedding of the superficial squamous cells can transmit the virus; examples are mere direct skin to skin contact and sexual contact. Different types of this virus can cause common genital warts but there are a few types that can cause penile CA and cervical CA. I hate being the bad news bearer but I would presume that your cervical cells contained the types of HPV that can potentially cause cancer, or they found cervical cells on the pre-cancer state (aka carcinoma in situ).  In your age group, hysterectomy is an attractive option especially if the woman is not interested of having kids. So this is most probably the reason behind the hysterectomy. A total hysterectomy includes removal of the uterus and the entire cervix (as compared to partial hysterectomy which excludes the cervix). As to answer your question on how you got this, it could be your sexual partner(s), (past and/or present). HPV may or may not cause warts; however, even those w/ no visible warts (asymptomatic) can still transmit the virus simply by shedding superficial squamous cells containing the virus. If the HPV was solely on your cervix, then it is very unlikely that you are still contagious. If you still have warts anywhere else (external genitalia up to vagina), then you may still have the virus. I am confident though that your surgeon who did the hysterectomy checked for visible warts on these areas. You may ask you doctor if you can still benefit from the HPV vaccine. It can protect you and your partner from cervical cancer, penile cancer and common genital warts. Only 3 shots are needed for lifetime protection. I do hope I have enlightened you in some way. I wish you all the best and take care always.