Wart worries
Question
About a year ago I got really drunk and ended up losing my virginity to this girl. But rather than the happy experience I was hoping it'd be it's turned into a nightmare, the biggest regret of my life.
A couple of months after we slept together she told me she'd got genital warts, which I was sure she hadn't caught from me. The thing is, I waited to see if anything appeared rather than getting tested and although nothing has I'm still really worried.
I really don't want to have to go to the doctors - it's too embarrassing - I just want to know if I've got them or not, is there anywhere online I can go to find out?
Answer
Genital warts are caused by a virus and can be passed on through skin-to-skin contact, not just full sex. To be honest, there is really no substitute for a physical examination but, if you'd prefer, NHS Direct provides online and telephone advice on sexual health.
We understand you are scared about getting tested but please be assured that infection testing services are discreet and confidential. You don't even have to go to your doctor (GP). For specific advice and testing for genital warts, we would suggest that you contact your local genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinic.
Before being tested it is usual to have a chat with a health adviser about any concerns you may have. And the test results are confidential to the GUM clinic; your GP will not be informed without your consent.
You mentioned that this experience was the biggest regret of your life and it sounds as though you have been left with a lot of confusing feelings about this experience. If you would like to talk to someone about this, you could come and talk to a counsellor at your nearest Brook Centre (under 25s only) in complete confidence.
It's also important to remember that to help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancy in the future, always use a condom during sexual activity.
Updated: 15/04/2010
Question answered by YouthNet in association with Brook
