March 4th marks International HPV Awareness Day. It is the time to address myths and misinformation surrounding the human papillomavirus (HPV).

One common misconception is that lesbians are at little to no risk of contracting HPV. This belief can lead to lower screening rates and increased vulnerability to HPV-related complications, including cervical cancer.

So, can a lesbian get HPV? And can you get HPV from lesbian sex? The answer is yes. Let’s explore why.

 

What Is HPV?

Overview of Human Papillomavirus

HPV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is caused by skin-to-skin contact, often during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It is the most common STI globally, with most sexually active individuals contracting it at some point in their lives.

 

High-risk vs. low-risk HPV strains

There are over 200 strains of HPV, with around 40 affecting the genital area. These strains fall into two categories:

  • Low-risk HPV: Causes genital warts but does not lead to cancer.
  • High-risk HPV: Linked to cervical, anal, throat, and other cancers.

 

Many people with HPV experience no symptoms and unknowingly spread the virus. In most cases, the immune system clears the infection, but some strains can persist and cause health complications.

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Can a Lesbian Get HPV?

Debunking the misconception that lesbians are at low risk

Yes, lesbians can get HPV. The misconception that only heterosexual women are at risk comes from the idea that HPV is transmitted through penile penetration.

However, HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, meaning any sexual activity involving the genital area can result in transmission.

 

Why Are Lesbians at Risk?

  1. Skin-to-Skin Contact: HPV spreads through intimate contact, including genital-to-genital contact, oral sex, and touching an infected area.
  2. Shared Sex Toys: Using unsanitized sex toys can transfer the virus from one partner to another.
  3. Lower Screening Rates: Studies show that lesbian and bisexual women get fewer routine Pap smears than heterosexual women, increasing the risk of undetected HPV infections.
  4. Long Dormancy Period: HPV can remain dormant for years, meaning someone may unknowingly carry and spread the virus.
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Can You Get HPV from Lesbian Sex?

Ways HPV spreads

HPV can be transmitted between two women through various types of sexual contact. Here’s how:

1. Genital-to-Genital Contact

Even without penetration, skin-to-skin contact in the genital area can transfer HPV from one partner to another. This includes:

  • Vulva-to-vulva contact
  • Mutual masturbation (if vaginal fluids are transferred)

2. Oral Sex

HPV can infect the mouth and throat, leading to oral HPV and throat cancer. Performing cunnilingus (oral-vaginal contact) on an infected partner increases the risk.

3. Sharing Sex Toys

If sex toys are not properly sanitized, HPV can linger on their surface and be passed between partners. Using condoms on toys and washing them with antibacterial soap can help reduce the risk.

4. Deep Kissing

Though rare, some studies suggest that HPV can spread through deep kissing, especially if one partner has oral HPV.

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HPV and Cervical Cancer Risks in Lesbians

One of the biggest concerns about HPV is its link to cervical cancer. HPV causes nearly all cases of cervical cancer, making screening crucial.

Why Are Lesbians Less Likely to Get Screened?

Many lesbians incorrectly believe that they do not need Pap smears since they do not have sex with men. Some healthcare providers have also historically failed to recommend screening to lesbian and bisexual women.

However, if you have a cervix, you should be screened—regardless of sexual orientation. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends:

  • Women aged 21-29: Pap smear every three years
  • Women aged 30-65: Pap smear every three years OR HPV test every five years

Regular screenings can detect abnormal cells before they turn into cancer, significantly reducing the risk.

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Other HPV-Related Health Concerns

Besides cervical cancer, HPV can also cause:

  • Genital warts: Caused by low-risk HPV strains (HPV 6 and 11)
  • Throat cancer: HPV can infect the mouth and throat, leading to oropharyngeal cancer
  • Anal cancer: HPV can also affect the anal region, increasing cancer risk


How to Find Out If You Have HPV

Since HPV often has no symptoms, the only way to know for sure is through routine testing. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Get a Pap Smear: This test detects abnormal cervical cells that could lead to cancer.
  2. Request an HPV Test: This test identifies high-risk HPV strains. It is often done alongside a Pap smear.
  3. Look for Symptoms: If you notice genital warts, unusual discharge, or irregular bleeding, see a healthcare provider.
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How to Protect Yourself Against HPV

Although there is no cure for HPV, there are ways to reduce your risk of infection.

1. Get Vaccinated

The Gardasil 9 vaccine protects against the most dangerous HPV strains, including those that cause cervical cancer and genital warts. It is recommended for individuals aged 9 to 45. Even if you are sexually active, the vaccine can still offer protection.

2. Practice Safe Sex

  • Use dental dams during oral sex.
  • Wear gloves or finger cots for genital touching.
  • Use condoms on sex toys and clean them after each use.

3. Limit Sexual Partners

The more partners you have, the higher your risk of encountering HPV. Maintaining a monogamous relationship or limiting partners can reduce risk.

4. Get Regular Screenings

Regardless of vaccination status, regular Pap smears and HPV testing are essential for early detection and prevention.


Conclusion

So, can a lesbian get HPV? Yes. Can you get HPV from lesbian sex? Absolutely. HPV does not discriminate based on sexual orientation. It is a common virus spread through skin-to-skin contact, affecting anyone who is sexually active. The best way to protect yourself is through vaccination, safe sex practices, and regular health screenings.

On this International HPV Awareness Day, let’s break the stigma and ensure everyone—regardless of their sexual orientation—has access to accurate HPV education and preventive healthcare.