HPV During Pregnancy: Symptoms, Risks Factors And Treatment

Mostly, HPV during pregnancy won't affect the developing baby.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Pamela Adhiambo Muga, MMed Dr. Pamela Adhiambo Muga Dr. Pamela Adhiambo MugaMMed MomJunction on FacebookFollow MomJunction on Instagram Specialty: Obstetrics & GynecologyExperience: 15 years
Written by , MSc (Biotechnology) Vidya Tadapatri MSc (Biotechnology) Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Health and WellnessExperience: 5 years
Edited by , BSc Rebecca Malachi BSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pregnancy, Health and WellnessExperience: 12 years
Fact-checked by , M.Pharm, PhD Dr. Joyani Das M.Pharm, PhD Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pharma, Health and WellnessExperience: 3.5 years
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Pregnant woman consulting her doctor about HPV symptoms and risks

Image: iStock

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a causative agent of sexually transmitted infections. Genital HPV infection is common, with 75% of sexually active adults being exposed to the infection at least once in their lifetime (1).

Most HPV infections are asymptomatic (2). However, the mild immunosuppressed stateiA state in which the body has weak immunity or the ability to fight against infections mainly due to the effect of medications and hormonal shifts during pregnancy may cause a woman to develop symptoms of HPV infection in pregnancy (3). Read on to know more about the symptoms, risk factors, treatments, and preventive measures for HPV infection during pregnancy.

In This Article

Symptoms Of HPV Infection

HPV infections are mostly asymptomatic. The most common symptoms of the infection are wartsiA small, painless bump on the skin caused by viruses and can spread from one part of the body to the other , which may appear on any part of the body. Warts that appear inside or outside the genitals or anus usually indicate a sexual transmission of HPV.

  • Other common symptoms of HPV infection are (4) (5):
  • Flat lesions that appear like spots
  • Bump-like projections with abnormal appearance
  • Itching or burning sensation in the genital region
  • Vaginal bleeding during or after a sexual intercourse

protip_icon Things to know
Genital warts can also occur on the lips and tongue (5).

Itching or burning sensation in the genital region

Image: Shutterstock

These symptoms may be present in other conditions, such as other sexually transmitted infections. Certain types of HPV may increase the risk of cancer of the cervix, vagina, anus, throat, and mouth. Therefore, see a doctor to determine the underlying cause.

Mode Of Transmission Of HPV Infection

HPV infection occurs due to any of the more than 100 types of human papillomaviruses

(5). The HPV virus can pass from the infected person through the following ways (6) (7).

  • Vaginal, oral, or anal sex
  • Touching warts of an infected person
  • Touching contaminated objects, such as a doorknob

HPV transmission can occur even when the person with the virus has no symptoms. The most common symptoms of HPV infection are warts, which may not appear for weeks to months after infection (5).

protip_icon Things to know
Although there are many types of HPV, not all cause warts on the genitals. Only HPV types 6 and 11 cause genital warts in most cases (5).

Risk Factors Of HPV Infection In Pregnancy

The following factors may increase the risk of developing HPV infection during pregnancy.

  • Sexual activity: Women who are sexually active during pregnancy may have a higher risk of contracting the virus.
  • Multiple sex partners: Women with multiple sex partners are at an increased risk of developing sexually transmitted infections, such as HPV infection.

    Having multiple sex partners increases the risk of HPV infection

    Image: Shutterstock

  • Weakened immunity: Stress, diabetes, and certain medicines may weaken your immunity and affect maternal health, making you susceptible to infections, such as an HPV infection.
  • Past infections: You may be at a higher risk of developing HPV infection if you have had previous viral infections, such as HSV (herpesi A group of viruses that cause painful blisters or sores around the genitals, mouth, or rectum ) infection.
  • Age: A study noted that women younger than 25 years might be at a higher risk of contracting HPV infection during pregnancy (8). More research is needed to establish the link between age and the risk of infection.

Diagnosis Of HPV Infection During Pregnancy

Testing for HPV infections is usually not done during pregnancy. However, if your doctor suspects any signs of infection in you or detects any presence of warts during a routine screening, they may screen you for HPV infection with the following tests (5) (9).

  • Pelvic examination: Your OB/GYN will perform a pelvic (cervical) exam to visualize the presence of warts externally.
  • PAP test: Pap smear test is useful to determine abnormalities in cervical cells. The sample is taken from your cervix and examined for infection. The test is widely used to detect cervical cancers.

    Pap test is useful to determine abnormalities in cervical cells.

    Image: Shutterstock

  • Colposcopy: This test is used to visualize genital warts or abnormal cervical cells. Your gynecologist may suggest a biopsy to check for cervical abnormalities.
  • Molecular testing (HPV DNA test): A HPV DNA test is done after your doctor detects an abnormal pap test and confirms the presence of genital warts. It is an additional test to evaluate high-risk HPV infections that may lead to cancers.

Treatment For HPV Infection During Pregnancy

There is no cure known for HPV infection, and the virus stays in the body forever (10). Nevertheless, in most cases, the immune system subdues the effects of the virus, relieving the symptoms of the infection.

HPV treatments are usually directed towards managing symptoms or excision of warts and may include the following (11)

  • Cryotherapy: A technique used to freeze warts or abnormal cervical cells, usually with liquid nitrogen.
  • Laser removal: This method uses high-intensity light to destroy abnormal cells or tissues.
  • Electrical removal(electrocautery): This is a procedure to burn off the infected tissues and warts with the heat of an electric cutter.

    Electrocautery can treat HPV tissues and warts

    Image: Shutterstock

  • Surgery: Surgical procedures, such as small excisions, cold knife cones (CKC)i A surgery in which an abnormal cone-shaped tissue is removed from the cervix with a laser knife. , and loop electrosurgical excision (LEEP)iA surgery in which a heated wire loop is used to remove abnormal cells from the tissue of the cervix , may be used to remove harmful tissues and prevent the development of malignancies.
  • Topical medications: Your doctor may prescribe certain medicated creams to apply on warts. You may note that the use of certain medications is contraindicated in pregnancy. Therefore, do not use any over-the-counter medicines for warts.

Your doctor may choose suitable treatment modalities based on the severity of infection’s symptoms and stage of pregnancy and after considering possible risks and complications.

Prevention Of HPV Infection In Pregnancy

Infection from certain types of human papillomaviruses can be prevented through the HPV vaccine. Make sure to get vaccinated before you conceive for the best protection. As per CDC, HPV vaccination is recommended for everyone before the age of 26. If you are older than 26, speak to your healthcare provider or obstetrician before getting the vaccine.

You can observe the following precautions to avoid the risk of infection during pregnancy (12) (13).

  • Have safe sex: Make sure to use condoms during sexual intercourse to reduce the chances of acquiring HPV and other sexually transmitted infections. A study noted that condoms during sex could reduce the risk of HPV infection by 70% in women (14).

    Use condoms during sexual intercourse

    Image: Shutterstock

  • Practice monogamy: Having multiple sex partners can increase your risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections such as HPV infection.
  • Discuss the risks of STIs with your partner: Be sure to know if your partner has any history of sexually transmitted infections before having sex (15).
protip_icon Caution
The HPV vaccine, GardasiliA vaccine used for females between nine and 45 for the prevention of cancers of the reproductive organs by the HPV virus , contains aluminum (aluminum hydroxyphosphate sulfate) and is not advised for women who are pregnant or are trying for pregnancy (4).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can HPV cause infertility?

Studies suggest that HPV infection could be a risk factor for infertility but not the only cause. Further research is needed to evaluate the role of HPV in causing female infertility (16).

2. Can a woman with HPV give birth naturally?

It is possible to have a natural birth with HPV. However, your doctor will suggest the type of delivery based on the severity of the infection. Your doctor may suggest a cesarean delivery if the genital lesions obstruct the birth canal or are at the risk of rupturing during delivery (17).

3. Can HPV be transmitted during childbirth?

Studies have shown that a woman with an HPV infection may pass the infection to the fetus during birth (18). It may lead to infection symptoms, such as warts in babies.

4. Does HPV increase the risk of miscarriage?

HPV infection during pregnancy might be associated with certain pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, restricted fetal growth, low birth weight, and preterm birthiA birth that takes place three weeks before the normal due date or the 37th week of pregnancy (19).

5. Does HPV get worse during pregnancy?

The various hormonal changes that the body undergoes during pregnancy may make HPV worse (20). However, in some cases, the hormonal changes may make the virus less active, decreasing the risk of HPV-related complications.

HPV infection during pregnancy may be asymptomatic in some women, while others may have noticeable symptoms. Speak to your doctor if you suspect you have symptoms of HPV infection. Early detection may help avoid complications, including certain types of cancers. Vaccine and precautions may usually help avoid the infection in most women.

Infographic: HPV Infection Risk Factors In Pregnancy

HPV infections can spread from one to another through unsafe sex, coming in contact with HPV warts, or touching contaminated objects. However, it is generally asymptomatic, but it may affect pregnancy. Therefore, checking for HPV infection and taking the HPV vaccine before conception is recommended. Check out the infographic below to learn about the risk factors and diagnostic tests for HPV infection in pregnancy.

risk factors and diagnostic tests for hpv infection during pregnancy (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) in pregnant women.
  • Most women are asymptomatic; however, you must report to your doctor if you notice lesions, bumps in the privates, or vaginal bleeding and itching.
  • History of STDs, having multiple sex partners, and a weakened immune system during pregnancy might increase the risk of developing HPV.
  • Practicing safe sex, monogamy, and getting vaccinated against HPV are effective measures to prevent this infection during pregnancy.
HPV and Pregnancy_illustration

Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team

Pregnancy is a special time for many women, but HPV can affect it. What the video to know how HPV can affect your pregnancy and what you can do.

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. Ankit H. Bharti, et al.; (2013); An update on oral human papillomavirus infection.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3841675/
  2. DeekshaPandey, et al.; (2019); Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection in Early Pregnancy: Prevalence and Implications.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6451823/
  3. S. Bandyopadhyay and R Chatterjee; (2006); HPV viral load determination during pregnancy as a possible cervical cancer risk.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16761615/
  4. HPV During Pregnancy.
    https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-concerns/hpv-during-pregnancy/
  5. Genital warts.
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000886.htm
  6. About Genital HPV Infection; CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/sti/about/about-genital-hpv-infection.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm
  7. How to get rid of warts.
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/how-to-get-rid-of-warts
  8. P. Liu et al.; (2014); The prevalence and risk of human papillomavirus infection in pregnant women.
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/epidemiology-and-infection/article/prevalence-and-risk-of-human-papillomavirus-infection-in-pregnant-women/27A4494461AFF1D0418382DBB9041360
  9. S. Arena, et al.; (2002); HPV and pregnancy: diagnostic methods, transmission and evolution.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12063438/
  10. Jon K. Hathaway; (2012); HPV: diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22828099/
  11. Lynette Luria, Gabriella Cardoza-Favarato; (2021); Human Papillomavirus.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448132/
  12. HPV (Human Papilloma Virus).
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11901-hpv-human-papilloma-virus
  13. Genital Warts (Human Papillomavirus).
    https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hw105401
  14. Consistent Condom Use Lowers Risk Of HPV Infection.
    https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.3322/canjclin.56.6.319
  15. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine.
    https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/vaccines/hpv-vaccine.html
  16. Shuang Yuan. et al.; (2019); Human papillomavirus infection and female infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31987733/
  17. P. Singhal, et al; (2009); Pregnancy and sexually transmitted viral infections
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3168062/
  18. SeungMi Lee, et al.; (2013); Risk of Vertical Transmission of Human Papillomavirus throughout Pregnancy: A Prospective Study.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3681772/
  19. Victor N Chilaka, et al.; (2021); Human papillomavirus (HPV) in pregnancy – An update.
    https://www.ejog.org/article/S0301-2115(21)00397-3/fulltext
  20. Deeksha Pandey et al.; (2019); Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection in Early Pregnancy: Prevalence and Implications.
    https://www.hindawi.com/journals/idog/2019/4376902/
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Dr. Pamela Adhiambo Muga
Dr. Pamela Adhiambo MugaMMed
Dr. Pamela Adhiambo Muga is a practicing obstetrician-gynecologist at the Nairobi Hospital and Willows Clinic for Women. She is registered with the Kenya Medical and Dental Practitioners Council and is a member of the Royal College of Obstetrician Gynecologists UK (MRCOG).

Read full bio of Dr. Pamela Adhiambo Muga
Vidya Tadapatri
Vidya TadapatriMSc (Biotechnology)
Vidya did her post-graduation in Biotechnology from Osmania University, Hyderabad. Her interest in scientific research and writing made her pursue a career in writing, in which she now has over five years of experience. She has done certified biotechnology-related training programs under renowned organizations such as Centre For Cellular & Molecular Biology and Department of Biotechnology.

Read full bio of Vidya Tadapatri
Rebecca Malachi
Rebecca MalachiBSc
Rebecca is a pregnancy writer and editor with a passion for delivering research-based and engaging content in areas of fertility, pregnancy, birth, and post-pregnancy. She did her graduation in Biotechnology and Genetics from Loyola Academy, Osmania University and obtained a certification in ‘Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy’ from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU).

Read full bio of Rebecca Malachi
Dr. Joyani Das
Dr. Joyani DasM.Pharm, PhD
Dr. Joyani Das did her post-graduation from Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra and PhD in Pharmacology. Previously, she worked as an associate professor, faculty of Pharmacology, for two years. With her research background in preclinical studies and a zeal for scientific writing, she joined MomJunction as a health writer.

Read full bio of Dr. Joyani Das