Human papillomavirus(HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States.Because of this, there are many myths and false information about how it spreads. You cannot catch HPV from a toilet seat—at least, a toilet seat in a developed country—but the question encourages a review of some of the lesser-known facts about how the virus is transmitted.
Unlike some STIs, HPV doesn’t require sexual contact to spread and can even bespread from mothers to babiesat times.While the spread of the virus from an object to a person (fomite transmission) hasn’t been clearly documented, studies have found evidence of HPV on ultrasound probes and towels.
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HPV and Fomite Transmission
Fomites such as wet towels are thought to be responsible for some cases of HPV in children.In this scenario, an infected parent would unknowingly transfer the virus to a towel, and, shortly after that, use the towel on their child.
The presence of HPV on objects has been demonstrated. Ultrasound probes used within the body, including probes used for a vaginal ultrasound, may become contaminated with HPV, including high-risk strains.
When this occurs, even some high-level disinfectants are inadequate to remove the virus. Fortunately, chemical methods such as sonicated hydrogen peroxideand nonchemical methods such as ultraviolet C radiationappear effective in killing the virus.
An older Scandinavian study looked specifically for HPV DNA on toilet seats and floors in a humid resort setting and found no evidence of the virus.
Though HPV may uncommonly be passed via a towel or medical instrument, sharing toilet seats (at least in countries with a high level of hygiene) or swimming in a pool with an infected person appear to be safe.
Methods of Transmission
HPV is transmittedthrough skin-to-skin contact from an infected partner, mostly during sexual activity. It’s possible to have HPV and not realize it. You can pass HPV to another person even when you have no signs or symptoms of the disease.
Sexual activities that can transmit the virus include:
Nonsexual modes of transmission can include:
10 Facts You Don’t Know About HPV
Preventing HPV Infections
HPV is linked to some cases ofcervical cancerandgenital warts. Understanding the different ways that you may catch HPV is important to reduce your risk of infection.
HPV symptomscan sometimes develop years after exposure, making it difficult for many people to know when they contracted the infection.
HPV is the most common STI, but it can also be transmitted in nonsexual ways as well. You may want to take steps to protect yourself and your family.Some ways to reduce your risk for HPV infection include:
What to Expect During a Pap Smear
Summary
The chance of catching HPV from a toilet seat is extremely unlikely in developed countries. Even so, the virus can be transmitted in nonsexual ways and, theoretically, even from an object to a person. Good hygiene practices can help reduce your risk of getting HPV from an object. Vaccines are very helpful in reducing your risk of getting the strains of HPV that can cause medical problems like cancer.
A Word From Verywell
HPV is the most common STI. Most of the time, it is spread through sexual activity and skin-to-skin contact. Being aware of the methods of transmission and taking precautions such as safe sex, handwashing, and getting immunized can go a long way toward lowering your risk. Treatments are available, so if you notice any genital warts or other signs of STI, be sure to reach out to your healthcare provider.
HPV Doctor Discussion GuideGet our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.Download PDFEmail AddressSign UpThank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up.There was an error. Please try again.
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7 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Kreisel KM, Spicknall IH, Gargano JW, et al.Sexually transmitted infections among us women and men: prevalence and incidence estimates, 2018.Sex Transm Dis. 2021;48(4):208-214. doi:10.1097/OLQ.0000000000001355
Sabeena S, Bhat P, Kamath V, Arunkumar G.Possible non-sexual modes of transmission of human papilloma virus: Non-sexual modes of HPV transmission.J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 2017;43(3):429-435. doi:10.1111/jog.13248
Petca A, Borislavschi A, Zvanca M, Petca RC, Sandru F, Dumitrascu M.Non-sexual HPV transmission and role of vaccination for a better future (Review).Exp Ther Med. 2020;20(6):1-1. doi:10.3892/etm.2020.9316
Ryndock E, Robison R, Meyers C.Susceptibility of HPV16 and 18 to high level disinfectants indicated for semi‐critical ultrasound probes.J Med Virol. 2016;88(6):1076-1080. doi:10.1002/jmv.24421
Puranen M, Syrjänen K, Syrjänen S.Transmission of genital human papillomavirus infections is unlikely through the floor and seats of humid dwellings in countries of high-level hygiene.Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases. 1996;28(3):243-246. doi:10.3109/00365549609027165
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.STD facts - Human papillomavirus.
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