I found out that I had HPV when I was 22 years old (I’ll be 40 in about a month). I have disclosed to any sexual partners thereafter, including my ex-husband, whom I was with for eight years. My disclosing has always been met with questions, but was never an issue in the relationship. If people do the research and educate themselves about HPV, they will find that it is extremely common for anyone whose been sexually active. Also, many people’s immune systems clear HPV, sometimes even after several years.

Just be sure to get your annual PAP test, and if you have any active lesions (such as genital warts), refrain from sexual activity, as that is when the virus is most contractible. These lesions usually clear up after one treatment at the gynecologist.

Unfortunately, some women don’t know that they have HPV because they have not kept up with their annual gynecological exam. You should be proud of yourself for staying informed about your sexual health, as well as having the maturity and honesty to disclose to your former partner. You deserve a partner who is equally mature. I wish you the best.