Reoccurrence of HPV: Why it Happens & What To Do

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common viral infections, affecting millions of people worldwide. Many who have had it wonder, if HPV would come back. This concern arises because HPV behaves differently from other viruses—sometimes disappearing entirely and other times lingering in the body. Understanding why HPV might return is important for those who have been diagnosed before. 

Understanding HPV and Its Nature

HPV consists of over 100 different strains, many of which cause no symptoms. Some strains cause common warts on the hands or feet, while others lead to genital warts or increase the risk of cancer. The immune system usually clears HPV within a couple of years, but this does not always mean the virus is completely gone.

Instead of being permanently eliminated, HPV can become dormant, hiding in the body’s cells. If the immune system weakens due to stress, illness, or other factors, the virus may reactivate, leading to a recurrence of warts or abnormal cell changes. This ability to remain in the body unnoticed is why many people ask if HPV can reoccur. 

Is HPV Deadly?

Most HPV infections do not cause serious harm and clear on their own. However, certain high-risk strains, particularly HPV types 16 and 18, can lead to cancer if left untreated. More than 90% of cervical cancer cases are linked to HPV, and the virus can also cause other cancers, including those of the throat, anus, vulva, and penis.

HPV itself is not immediately life-threatening, but its complications can be. When high-risk strains cause abnormal cell growth, these cells may develop into cancer over time. Regular screenings, early detection, and vaccination significantly lower the risk of HPV-related cancers.

Understanding HPV’s potential risks and how it behaves in the body can help individuals take the right precautions and seek medical care when needed.

Can HPV Reoccur?

Recurrence is different from reinfection. Recurrence happens when the same HPV strain remains in the body and becomes active again. Reinfection occurs when a person contracts a different HPV strain from a new exposure.

Studies suggest that genital warts return in some cases, often within three months of treatment. However, not everyone experiences recurrence. Over time, the body’s defenses may suppress the virus permanently.

Factors like immune system strength, HPV strain, and initial treatment method affect how often HPV comes back. People with strong immune responses may never experience another outbreak, while others might see warts or abnormal cells return.

Why Does HPV Come Back?

HPV does not behave like typical infections. Even when symptoms disappear, the virus may still exist in the body. Some key reasons for recurrence include:

• Dormancy and Reactivation – The virus can stay hidden in skin or cervical cells for years. If immunity weakens, it may reactivate.
• Weakened Immune System – Illness, stress, or medications like immunosuppressants make the body vulnerable to recurrence.
• HPV Strain Type – Some strains, like HPV 6 and 11, are more persistent and more likely to cause warts again.
• Smoking – Tobacco use weakens the immune system and increases the risk of HPV-related warts returning.

What to Do When HPV Comes Back

If HPV reoccurs, knowing what steps to take can help manage symptoms and reduce complications. Recurrence does not mean the infection is new, but rather that the virus has become active again. Here’s what to do:

Recognize the Signs of Recurrence

HPV can return as genital warts, abnormal test results, or other symptoms. If warts reappear, they may look different in size or location. In some cases, there may be no visible signs, but a pap test may detect abnormal cervical cells.

Consult a Doctor for Proper Diagnosis and Treatment

Medical evaluation ensures that symptoms are properly assessed. If warts return, doctors may recommend treatments such as topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing), or surgical removal. If abnormal cells are detected, additional testing or procedures like a biopsy may be necessary.

Follow the Recommended Treatment Plan

Completing the prescribed treatment helps control symptoms and reduces the likelihood of further recurrence. For genital warts, multiple treatment sessions may be needed. If abnormal cervical cells are found, doctors may suggest follow-ups to monitor changes.

Understand the Emotional Impact

HPV recurrence can be stressful, leading to anxiety or concerns about relationships. Speaking with a doctor, therapist, or support group can help address emotional and mental health challenges.

Inform Sexual Partners

Since HPV can be transmitted even when symptoms are not visible, open communication with partners is important. While HPV testing is not available for men, partners should be aware of potential risks and consider regular check-ups.

Understanding how to respond to HPV recurrence can help reduce anxiety and ensure timely medical care. Managing symptoms early can prevent complications and improve long-term outcomes.

How to Prevent Recurrence and Reinfection

Preventing HPV from returning or being contracted again involves a combination of lifestyle choices and medical interventions.

Support Your Immune System

A strong immune system plays a major role in keeping HPV suppressed. The following steps can help:

• Eating a balanced diet with vitamins and antioxidants
• Exercising regularly
• Getting enough sleep
• Managing stress effectively

Get the HPV Vaccine

Vaccination protects against high-risk strains of HPV, including those linked to cancer and genital warts. While the vaccine is most effective before exposure, some adults may still benefit from getting it.

Practice Safer Sex

Barrier methods like condoms and dental dams lower the risk of transmission but do not completely prevent HPV. Reducing the number of sexual partners and avoiding contact with visible warts can also help.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking weakens the body’s ability to fight infections and is linked to higher HPV recurrence rates. Quitting can improve overall health and lower the risk of HPV complications.

When to Seek Medical Advice

HPV infections often resolve on their own, but certain situations require medical attention. Seeing a doctor is important if:

• Genital warts return after treatment
• Abnormal pap test results indicate precancerous changes
• Symptoms persist or worsen over time

Regular screenings help detect early signs of complications, making treatment more effective. Doctors can provide options like cryotherapy, laser treatment, or prescription medications to manage recurring warts.

Managing HPV for the Long Term

HPV can behave unpredictably, reactivating years after the initial infection or never causing symptoms again. While some people clear the virus permanently, others may experience occasional flare-ups. Understanding why HPV comes back and how to reduce the risk of recurrence allows individuals to take control of their health. For those who have had HPV, staying informed and following medical advice ensures the best possible outcome. While HPV may linger in some cases, the right steps can minimize its impact and help maintain long-term health.