I'm HPV-33 positive and was successfully treated for tonsil cancer. I've been with my husband for about 30 years. Assuming HPV is transmitted sexually, one of us was infected before we met. I'm wondering if oral sex will increase my risk redeveloping oral cancer (e.g., since I got it once am I at a higher risk). We're going to ask our PCP later today, but my guess is she may not know the answer.

I don't know about the HPV angle, but I think if you used a condom it would be pretty safe all round, though I appreciate it would lack some of the intimacy. Might help with the dry mouth too though, easier to keep lubricated?

regards
John

I doubt she or anyone will be able to answer that question. I have yet to find one that can tell me how I got HPV orally much less why it became cancerous. Oh they all will give their opinion but I don't even pay attention to it now. I'll wait and see IF and that's a BIG IF, they ever conduct a study that sheds some light on the whole HPV conundrum.

That said, I would THINK that since a majority of us are exposed to the HPV virus during our lifetime and only a very small percent have it develop into to cancer and that you seem to be one that it has already happened to, logic would dictate that you might be more susceptible to future HPV problems. That an $1.00 will get you a cup of cheap coffee.

Hi Simple Gifts--I love your name!

Interestingly, three weeks ago I asked this exact question of my onc., and the reply was that, since my husband and I have been together for so long (25-yr. anniv!!), we have most likely already exchanged whatever we are going to exchange. Also, my doc has not seen even one recurrence of an oral cancer primary tumor. The quite definite cause for my cancer was HPV 16 deposited via oral sex, according to my doc. As a participant in two clinical studies, I very much trust my onc team's assessment.

All that said, my sweetie husband and I are still pretty cautious while sharing intimacy. I think it's wonderful that you're forging ahead and enjoying life so much. Aren't we lucky to have gotten through this? During treatment, my husband and I wondered if we'd ever even be able to sleep in the same bed again, since I had to sleep sitting up. For so long it seemed that nothing would ever be "normal" again. We are so grateful to be together and for each other's presence every day, and we celebrate that a lot.

If you would share with us what your PCP said in reference to this, we forum folks would really appreciate hearing it.

Have a great weekend,
Carol

Well , My RO said to not even kiss for 6 months. take it from there>>

Now Jim that you're feeling better I can't resist...who would want to kiss you old fart anyway? LOL

My PCP's response was very similiar to what Carol posted. At this point, she didn't think there was in increased risk, but if we were still concerned my oncologist or ENT might have more info.

Jim- Men are like wine-better with age!

Oh Yes, Suemarie LOL . IT's gonna be along haul trying not to kiss for 6 months, but I will do that too. I fear passing this on to anyone and will become celibate if necessary. LOL I worry more about Barb than I do myself and she is getting tested , but i wish it was by a specialist in this area and not a GP.