[swimmingaway]

So I have been in a monogamous relationship for the past 8 years, so I don't have much sexual experience. Now I am single for the first time in my adult life and ready to mingle (ha ha). I have had feelings for my roommate for the past few months but we have kept it as friends. Recently I feel as we have emotionally grown closer and I very much would like more. The other night he let me know that he has HPV - non cancerous strain but basically he has genital warts. I believe he has told me so that I can decide for myself if our flirting should go any further. Problem is I don't know much about HPV other than reading on the internet that it is very common.
I also have a fear that I could get it from sharing a shower and toilet with him? and if we were to kiss ever would I have a chance of getting it?
I guess I should go to the doctor and get a vaccine and ask questions. Reading up on it, it looks like vaccines are only really given to women up to age 26 and I am 26 now so I guess its not too late!
Any advice or knowledge on the subject would be greatly appreciated!

[jns]

I would read up about HPV from several sources on the internet. Then consult with your doctor about getting the vaccine. From what I read, you wouldn't get it from a toilet seat or a shower. I also read that condoms are only partially effective since there is still some skin to skin contact for transmission.

[jns]

I have read that HPV16 causes oral cancer at four times the rate in men as it does women when all other factors have been taken into account, due to a lowered immune response. Vaccination seems like the only way to guard against the HPV that can cause the cancer in many cases.