My boyfriend recently visited ahis GP regarding a small blemish on his penis. He said it was probably the HPV virus and he should go to the GUM clinic to have this confirmed. He went and they confirmed it was HPV. After asking alot of questions he was also given a urine and blood test. We have been in a relationship for 5 years and he has not had a sexual relationship with anyone else during this time as far as I am aware. The blemish had been there for many years but had become raised over the past couple of weeks, hence the reason for getting it checked. He said he answered the questions honestly. I cant understand why they would perform the tests on someone who was not at risk of any other STI. He said it was standard proceedure but I feel really unsure.
Hi, HPV is extremely common and is the one of the most common STD / STI's..
To answer your question the Doctor most likely made an easy, pre-diagnosis simply by viewing the blemish and wanted to make sure he was correct by performing the test...It is common for HPV show up, years after contact. Most people do not know they are infected until they see a blemish and have it checked.
More important. For anyone that is sexually active and has unprotected sex. It is a good idea to be tested regularly for HPV and HIV, as well as other std's. Also, ask about the vaccine that is available to help reduce the chances of contracting HPV as well as some forms of Hepatitis.
Many forms of HPV can be treated and Early treatment is important. If you haven't already - scheduled an appointment with your GP or Clinic for testing. Note: Some clinics offer annonymous testing.
Meanwhile, try not to worry and Do Not try to diagnose yourself via the internet - it will most likely only cause you unnecessary worry with hypothetical symptoms. The only way to be sure is to be Tested. Good luck and remember always play safe.
Hi matt thanks for your reply. However my concern was more with regards to the fact that my partner went to the clinic to be checked for HPV and was also tested for other sexually transmitted infections. I was wondering if this was routine or whether tests were performed on a risk assessment based on responses to questions that were asked. I would have presumed he was low risk as we have been in a relationship for 5 years. Is it standard procedure to test everyone who attends a clinic?
Hi Joanne, Each patient Doctor visit is unique, so it would be impossible to say.. However, one of the questions that may be asked, relates to the time frame the patient has had unprotected sex. I assume his answer would have been yes since you have been in a relationship for 5 years. It is impossible for the clinic to assess the personal, sexual, nature of the patient or who the patient has had unprotected sex with. So, if the answer is yes, then a test may be called for - and more so, since there was concern over a longtime blemish that has changed...