Unlike some STIs, HPV doesn’t require sexual contact to spread and can even be spread from mothers to babies at times.
And while the spread of the virus from an object to a person (fomite transmission) hasn’t been clearly documented, studies have found evidence of HPV on ultrasound probes and towels.
This article discusses different ways that HPV can be transmitted and ways you can help avoid getting infected with HPV.
HPV and Fomite Transmission
There is no conclusive evidence showing the transmission of HPV from a person to an object and then to another person—which is called fomite transmission—but there are other findings that raise some concerns. Overall, most transmission is from person to person during physical contact, so the risk of being infected by HPV from a virus living on a surface is relatively small.
Fomites such as wet towels are thought to be responsible for some cases of HPV in children. In this scenario, an infected parent would unknowingly transfer the virus to a towel, and, shortly after that, use the towel on their child.
The presence of HPV on objects has been demonstrated. Ultrasound probes used within the body, including probes used for a vaginal ultrasound, may become contaminated with HPV, including high-risk strains.
When this occurs, even some high-level disinfectants are inadequate to remove the virus. Fortunately, chemical methods such as sonicated hydrogen peroxide and nonchemical methods such as ultraviolet C radiation appear effective in killing the virus.
An older Scandinavian study looked specifically for HPV DNA on toilet seats and floors in a humid resort setting and found no evidence of the virus.
Methods of Transmission
HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact from an infected partner, mostly during sexual activity. It’s possible to have HPV and not realize it. You can pass HPV to another person even when you have no signs or symptoms of the disease.
Sexual activities that can transmit the virus include:
Vaginal intercourse Anal intercourse Oral sex Touching your infected partner’s genitals and then your own Kissing Fisting or fingering Using undisinfected sex toys after an infected person has used them Genital-to-genital contact (same or opposite sex)
Nonsexual modes of transmission can include:
Transplacental transmission (rare): Uncommonly, HPV may travel from an infected mother up into the uterus during pregnancy. HPV DNA has been found in amniotic fluid and the umbilical cord. From an infected mother to a baby during a vaginal birth (perinatal transmission): Transmission is thought to occur as the baby travels through the birth canal. It may result in papillomas in a baby’s mouth, throat, or lungs. Digital (hand) contact: A parent or caregiver with HPV-related warts on their hands may transfer the virus to a baby during diaper changes. Auto-inoculation: A person may spread the virus from one region of their body to another by, for example, touching genital warts and then touching their mouth.
Oral HPV infection appears to be significant in transferring HPV among family members.
Preventing HPV Infections
HPV is linked to some cases of cervical cancer and genital warts. Understanding the different ways that you may catch HPV is important to reduce your risk of infection.
HPV is the most common STI, but it can also be transmitted in nonsexual ways as well. You may want to take steps to protect yourself and your family. Some ways to reduce your risk for HPV infection include:
Get vaccinated: Gardisil 9 is the only HPV vaccine approved in the United States. Be aware: Be aware that these viruses exist and that someone can be infected even if they don’t have symptoms. Practice safer sex: Safer-sex practices are important for reducing HPV and other STIs. Limit your number of sexual partners: This reduces the number of potential sources for getting HPV. Use condoms properly: Condoms can reduce your HPV risk. Proper condom use alone reduces women’s HPV risk by 70%. Wash your hands: Handwashing can reduce your risk of contracting HPV or spreading it to other people or areas of your body Get regular Pap smears: Even asymptomatic HPV infections can lead to cervical cancer, so it’s important to follow current guidelines for Pap smears (and HPV testing in some cases).
Summary
The chance of catching HPV from a toilet seat is extremely unlikely in developed countries. Even so, the virus can be transmitted in nonsexual ways and, theoretically, even from an object to a person. Good hygiene practices can help reduce your risk of getting HPV from an object. Vaccines are very helpful in reducing your risk of getting the strains of HPV that can cause medical problems like cancer.
A Word From Verywell
HPV is the most common STI. Most of the time, it is spread through sexual activity and skin-to-skin contact. Being aware of the methods of transmission and taking precautions such as safe sex, handwashing, and getting immunized can go a long way toward lowering your risk. Treatments are available, so if you notice any genital warts or other signs of STI, be sure to reach out to your healthcare provider.
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