Can I get reinfected with HPV?

When most people think about getting an STI, do they think about getting it twice? Probably not. But it’s possible.

One STI we should consider carefully when discussing reinfection is HPV. While many people know what HPV is and how they can get it, many don’t contemplate the possibility of getting it a second time.

Is this something you should be concerned about? Keep reading to find out!

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What is HPV?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 200 related viruses, each identified by a unique number or type.

Some types of HPV are known for causing warts on different parts of the body, such as the hands and feet, while others are more commonly associated with causing warts in the genital area.

HPV is so incredibly common that it’s almost universal that sexually active individuals will contract at least one type of HPV at some point in their lives. We can almost consider it a part of being a human being as it is the only STI which is so normal to have.

High and low-risk strains of HPV

There are high-risk and low-risk strains of HPV.

Low-risk types might cause Genital Warts, which are usually benign and treatable. However, high-risk types are more concerning as in a few people they can lead to cancers, such as cervical cancer in women (a fairly common cancer), and other cancers affecting the throat (becoming more common), and the anus and penis, which are still relatively rare.

How is HPV Transmitted?

HPV is primarily transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact, which makes sexual activity the most common way for the virus to spread. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex, but prolonged intimate contact can be enough.

It’s important to understand that HPV can be transmitted even when an infected person shows no signs or symptoms, making it possible to pass the virus to a partner unknowingly.

In addition to sexual contact, HPV can also be spread through other forms of close skin-to-skin contact. For instance, genital HPV can be transmitted through non-penetrative sexual activities, such as genital-to-genital contact.

While less common, it’s also possible for a mother to pass HPV to her baby during pregnancy or delivery.

Can you get reinfected with HPV?

HPV is extremely common. Most people don’t even know they’re carrying a strain, or even more than one. In in the overwhelming majority of cases, the virus will do no harm to us or our sexual partners. The vast majority of HPV infections are cleared from the immune system within two years. However, it’s possible to get reinfected with HPV, depending on the type.

While your body can develop immunity to a specific strain of HPV after clearing it, this immunity doesn’t necessarily last very long or protect you from other strains.

There are over 200 types of HPV, and being infected with one type doesn’t prevent you from contracting another. This means that even if you’ve had HPV before, you can still be at risk of getting a different strain in the future.

Interestingly, research has shown that men might have a higher risk of reinfection with the same type of HPV compared to women. This could be due to various factors, including differences in immune response and behaviour.

It’s unclear whether these people truly cleared the virus or whether the HPV remained dormant in the body and reactivated later, which might be mistaken for reinfection.

The factors that influence reinfection

Several factors can influence the likelihood of HPV reinfection.

One of the most significant factors is the strength of an individual’s immune system. A robust immune system can help clear HPV infections more effectively, reducing the risk of reinfection.

Conversely, individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or those undergoing immunosuppressive treatments, may be more susceptible to reinfection.

Additionally, lifestyle factors like smoking can impair immune function and increase the risk of persistent HPV infections.

And, of course, another important factor is sexual behaviour. Having multiple sexual partners or a partner who has multiple partners can increase the risk of encountering different strains of HPV, leading to reinfection.

Lastly, the type of HPV strain plays a role in reinfection. Some strains are more likely to cause persistent infections, while others may be cleared by the immune system more readily. High-risk HPV types, which are associated with cancers, can be particularly concerning if they persist or if reinfection occurs.

Should I be worried if I have HPV?

Finding out you have HPV can be concerning, but it’s important to remember that HPV is very common and usually doesn’t cause serious health problems. Most HPV infections clear up on their own within 2 years without causing any symptoms or long-term issues. In fact, many people who have HPV never even know they have it.

However, certain high-risk types of HPV may lead to more serious health conditions, such as cervical cancer in women and other cancers in both men and women.

Regular screenings, like Pap smears and HPV tests, are crucial for early detection and management of any potential issues. Speak to your family doctor or your gynaecologist if you have never done a smear test before (cytology test).

How can I avoid getting HPV?

One of the most effective methods of prevention is getting an HPV vaccine.

Vaccines protect against the most common high-risk and low-risk types of HPV, significantly lowering your chances of contracting a harmful strain of the virus.

In the UK, HPV vaccination is recommended for both boys and girls, starting at ages 12 or 13, but it’s also beneficial for teens and young adults who haven’t yet been vaccinated. This early vaccination helps ensure protection before they become sexually active later in life.

This said, there are studies that show a protective benefit could be present even in 30 year olds getting vaccinated for the first time.

Using condoms during sexual activity can also help reduce the risk of HPV transmission. While these barrier methods don’t provide complete protection, as HPV can infect areas not covered by them, they still significantly lower the chances of spreading the virus.

Regular screening for HPV helps reduce the chance of a related cancer or precancerous changes in women. Your gynaecologist can advise you about getting tested every few years or when you start a new relationship. Understanding that most infections are of no consequence is important when you have open communication with your sexual partners.

Final thoughts

Understanding HPV and the chance of reinfection is important for maintaining your sexual health. Reinfection is usually no more serious than the first time a person is infected but you need to know how to manage a positive result properly.

If you have any concerns about HPV or other STIs, getting tested is a proactive step you can take.

Better2Know’s comprehensive range of STI testing services is designed to provide accurate and confidential results, giving you peace of mind and the information you need to take control of your health.

Click the button below to book a test near you today.

Don’t delay – book an STI test at a sexual health clinic near you.

This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Steve Chapman, 29/04/2025.

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