Didn't want to title this 'sex', but we are all grown adults and that is the basis of the query.
This has come from a discussion with a partner of a fellow HPV+ SCC patient.
They had concerns regarding HPV status following treatment and the health of their partner. Because of this, they have spoken to a sexual health worker. They have been advised to abstain from any physical relationships because of the risk of re-infecting their partner with HPV.
I find this very odd indeed. The S.H. worker said that they would most likely have the same HPV status as their partner, which I suppose makes sense. However, when we are treated for an HPV cancer, does it clear the HPV from our body too? I don't want to go googling too much but it is interesting me now. Where exactly does the HPV 'lurk' in our bodies for all those years? I know lymph tissue (in my case base of tongue) but does it get cut out with the rest of the tissue.
This all comes with just an 'O' level in human biology (yes, I am that old!) which is why I am totally out of my depth. I'm really hoping you may have a few answers here (Dani?!?!)
thanks in advance!!
Julie
I can't really answer your specific question Julie but just to report my on my experience (or more accurately, lack of), at absolutely no point during either of my cancer experiences was sexual contact mentioned. More than that there was never any reference to HPV status so I still have no idea of what mine was/is; possibly this is because my attitude was not to ask in depth questions and just let them get on with what they were doing. I never wanted details, some do and that's just as valid an attitude, we all handle this in our own way (I have 'O' levels as well, just not many 
). Dani is likely the "go to" on this as you suggest.
Metastatic SCC diagnosed 8th October 2013. Modified radical neck dissection November, thirty-five radiotherapy fractions with 2xCisplatin chemo Jan/Feb 2014. Recurrence on larynx diagnosed July 2020 so salvage laryngectomy in September 2020.
Hi Julie....I do know the answer to this but I've found this article which explains at length much better than I could
Psychosocial management of HPV
The thing to remember is that HPV cancer can have a very long latent period of 30 plus years. MOST people's immune system eliminates the virus and they don't get cancer.
Treatment might not eliminate HPV if it is a persistent infection outwith the treatment area so there is always a risk of another cancer....but I think this is really rare.
I was never told not to have sex and the fact that my husband might get cancer was never suggested
Hope this helps
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
For heaven's sake why do they complicate things? I wonder if HPV is found in a smear which then eventually sorts itself out are you advised to refrain from sex for ever? I'm happy to have survived it and my outlook is that the cancer has taken enough pleasure out of my life it sure as hell isn't taking the joy love and closeness I enjoy with my husband
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
