Dear zapman45,

Yes, this is possible. Genital warts are caused by certain types of HPV (human papilloma virus). The incubation period for genital warts is usually between three weeks and six months, but it may last for years after exposure — so a person who has this type of HPV may have a first outbreak of warts months or years after she or he has been infected.

HPV can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex, as well as skin-to-skin contact. Avoiding skin-to-skin contact with someone with HPV is the most effective way to prevent HPV infection. Using condoms (for vaginal and anal sex, and oral sex on a man) and Glyde dams (for oral sex on a woman) can reduce the risk of transmission.

You may have heard about a connection between HPV and cervical cancer. It's important to note that the HPV types that cause genital warts are not the HPVs that are associated with cervical cancer.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.