HPV Support Group
Human papillomavirus is a diverse group of DNA-based viruses that infect the skin and mucous membranes of humans. More than 100 different human papillomavirus (HPV) types have been characterized. Some HPV types cause benign skin warts, or papillomas, for which the virus family is named. HPVs associated with the development of such "common warts" are transmitted...
I always get two stories from the internet that hpv can be transmitted via skin to skin contact, but some sites suggest it can be transmitted through kissing if you have oral warts. Does anyone know?
How do people get oral HPV?
Only a few studies have looked at how people get oral HPV, and some of these studies show conflicting results. Some studies suggest that oral HPV may be passed on during oral sex (from mouth-to-genital or mouth-to-anus contact) or open-mouthed (French) kissing, others have not. The likelihood of getting HPV from kissing or having oral sex with someone who has HPV is not known. We do know that partners who have been together a long time tend to share genital HPVmeaning they both may have it. More research is needed to understand exactly how people get and give oral HPV infections.
Search for "Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Oropharyngeal Cancer - Fact Sheet" at the CDC web site.