Researchers aren't clear just what happens with HPV over time, but the evidence suggests in most cases, the immune system is able to clear/suppress the virus effectively. While there is no way to know if HPV is contagious at a given point, many experts think that for someone who has gone a year or two with no additional signs of skin lesions (like genital warts or cervical cell changes), the risks of transmitting the virus to a new partner are minimal. It's difficult to be more specific than that, though.

Condoms may reduce the risk of HPV infection, but don't offer 100% protection since virus can be on skin that condoms don't cover. Condoms are still a good idea, though, as they are highly effective against a number of STIs and a study published last year (Winer et al.) shows that among young women whose male partners use latex condoms consistently, HPV transmission was reduced by 70%.

The emotional aspects of an HPV diagnosis, for many, are much harder than any medical issues that arise. It's understandable and unfortunate. HPV is very common, with research indicating that the vast, vast majority of sexually active people contract HPV at some point in their lives. The reason you don't hear more about it is that for most of those with the virus, it's "silent" and clears without them ever being aware. Having HPV is in no way a reflection on someone's character or lifestyle. Increasingly, being exposed to HPV is part of being a normal sexually active adult.