Human Papillomavirus and Pregnancy – Medically Reviewed & Updated – January 2026 by Dr Garima Thakur, MBBS, IGMC Shimla, Junior Resident, Department of Paediatrics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh

Written with the clinical experience of Dr Seema Gupta (MD Naturopathy), guiding pregnant women through comfort, symptoms, and holistic care.

Worried about HPV during pregnancy? You’re not alone. Many expecting mothers feel anxious when they learn about human papillomavirus during pregnancy, especially if they receive a positive test result during routine prenatal care. 

The good news is that HPV is ubiquitous, and most women with the virus go on to have healthy pregnancies and babies. 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about human papillomavirus and pregnancy, including how it affects your pregnancy journey, vaccine safety guidelines, delivery considerations, and screening recommendations to help you make informed decisions for you and your baby.

Quick FAQ Box

Does HPV affect pregnancy or baby? Most research shows HPV typically doesn’t harm pregnancy outcomes, though some studies suggest slightly higher risks of preterm birth in certain cases.

Is HPV vaccination safe during pregnancy? HPV vaccines are not recommended during pregnancy, but accidental doses haven’t shown increased risks.

Can HPV be passed to the baby during birth? Transmission is extremely rare, occurring in less than 1% of births from mothers with HPV.

What Is HPV and How Common Is It in Pregnancy

Human papillomavirus represents one of the most widespread sexually transmitted infections worldwide, affecting nearly 80% of sexually active individuals at some point in their lives. During pregnancy, HPV remains just as common, with studies indicating that approximately 25-30% of pregnant women test positive for the virus. What many expectant mothers find surprising is that HPV is often entirely asymptomatic, meaning you might have the infection without experiencing any noticeable signs or symptoms.

The virus encompasses over 100 different types, with about 40 affecting the genital area. Most HPV infections are transient, meaning your immune system naturally clears them within two years without any medical intervention. However, persistent infections with high-risk types, particularly HPV 16 and 18, can lead to cellular changes that may eventually develop into cervical cancer if left unmonitored. Low-risk types, such as HPV 6 and 11, typically cause benign genital warts but rarely lead to cancer.

During pregnancy, many women first discover their HPV status through routine Pap screening, which continues to be an essential part of prenatal care. Some expectant mothers notice the appearance of genital warts, which can sometimes grow larger or appear more frequently during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and natural immune system suppression that occurs to protect the developing baby. These hormonal fluctuations can also cause existing HPV infections to become more active or noticeable.

The immune changes that happen during pregnancy serve an essential purpose in preventing your body from rejecting the growing fetus. Still, they can also affect how your body manages HPV infections. This doesn’t mean the virus becomes more dangerous during pregnancy. Still, it may explain why some women experience their first outbreak of genital warts or receive their first positive HPV test result while expecting.

Understanding that HPV is ubiquitous helps reduce the stigma and anxiety many women feel upon diagnosis. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention emphasises that having HPV doesn’t reflect personal choices or hygiene habits – it’s simply a widespread virus that most sexually active people encounter. For pregnant women, this knowledge can provide reassurance that they’re dealing with a manageable condition that healthcare providers see and treat regularly.

It’s worth noting that HPV can remain dormant in your system for years before becoming detectable, which means a positive test during pregnancy doesn’t necessarily indicate a recent infection. This understanding can be pcrucialfor women in monogamous relationships who might worry about the implications of a new HPV diagnosis during pregnancy.

Can HPV Affect Pregnancy or Fetal Health?

The relationship between human papillomavirus and pregnancy outcomes has been extensively studied, and the overall findings provide reassurance for most expecting mothers. The majority of research consistently shows that HPV typically doesn’t harm pregnancy outcomes or cause significant complications for either mother or baby. However, understanding the nuances of this research helps provide a complete picture of what to expect.

Large-scale studies examining thousands of pregnancies have found that most women with HPV experience normal pregnancies with healthy babies born at full term. The virus doesn’t cause birth defects, genetic abnormalities, or developmental delays in children. This finding holds true across different HPV types, whether high-risk or low-risk varieties. For many women, pregnancy actually proceeds exactly as it would without an HPV infection.

However, some research has identified potential associations between HPV infection and certain pregnancy complications, though it’s essential to understand that these risks remain relatively small and don’t affect most pregnancies. Some studies suggest that women with HPV infections may face slightly higher risks of preterm birth, with babies born before 37 weeks of gestation. The proposed mechanism involves inflammation or immune responses that might trigger early labour, though the exact pathway remains unclear.

Low birth weight represents another potential concern identified in some research. Babies born to mothers with active HPV infections occasionally weigh less at birth, which might relate to the preterm birth risk or other inflammatory processes. Intrauterine growth restriction, in which babies don’t grow as expected during pregnancy, has also been noted in some studies, though the absolute risk remains low.

Preterm premature rupture of membranes, where the amniotic sac breaks early, has been associated with HPV in some research. This condition can lead to preterm labour and requires careful medical management. However, most women with HPV don’t experience this complication, and many other factors can contribute to membrane rupture.

The most concerning but infrequent complication involves transmission of HPV to the newborn, which can lead to a condition called juvenile respiratory papillomatosis. This condition causes wart-like growths in the baby’s respiratory tract, particularly around the vocal cords and breathing passages. While serious, this occurs in fewer than 1 in 1000 births from mothers with genital warts, making it exceptionally uncommon.

It’s crucial to understand that having HPV doesn’t doom your pregnancy to complications. Many of the studies showing associations between HPV and pregnancy problems involve complex statistical analyses that identify small increases in risk across large populations. For individual mothers, the absolute risk of experiencing these complications remains low, and most healthcare providers emphasise that HPV-positive women should expect normal, healthy pregnancies.

The key lies in maintaining regular prenatal care, where your healthcare team can monitor your pregnancy progress and address any concerns that arise. Modern obstetric care is well-equipped to manage HPV during pregnancy, and most complications, if they occur, can be effectively treated to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and baby.

Delivery Considerations – Can HPV Influence Mode of Birth?

One of the most common concerns pregnant women have about human papillomavirus during pregnancy involves whether they can deliver vaginally or if a cesarean section becomes necessary. The medical consensus provides reassuring guidance: having HPV or genital warts alone is not typically an indication for changing your planned mode of delivery. Most women with HPV can safely deliver vaginally without increased risks to themselves or their babies.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, along with other major medical organisations, clearly states that cesarean section is not routinely recommended solely because of HPV infection or the presence of genital warts. This recommendation is based on extensive research showing that the risk of transmitting HPV to newborns during vaginal delivery remainsexceptionallyy low, occurring in less than 1% of births from affected mothers.

Even when mothers have visible genital warts at the time of delivery, vaginal birth usually proceeds normally. The birth canal naturally stretches during delivery, and small warts typically don’t obstruct the baby’s passage. Many healthcare providers have extensive experience managing deliveries in women with genital warts and can provide guidance specific to your situation.

However, there are rare circumstances where the mode of delivery might need consideration. If genital warts have grown exceptionally large during pregnancy – sometimes called giant condylomata – they could potentially obstruct the birth canal or cause excessive bleeding during vaginal delivery. In these uncommon situations, your healthcare team might discuss cesarean section as a safer option. This decision would be based on the specific size, location, and extent of the warts rather than simply their presence.

Another consideration involves extensive warts that might tear significantly during vaginal delivery, potentially causing substantial bleeding or healing complications. Your healthcare provider can assess this risk during your prenatal visits and discuss the best approach for your specific situation. Most women, even those with visible warts, don’t fall into this category and can plan for vaginal delivery.

The sporadic risk of transmitting HPV to your newborn doesn’t typically influence delivery planning because the risk remains low regardless of delivery method. Cesarean section doesn’t eliminate transmission risk entirely, as babies can still be exposed to HPV through other routes, including during pregnancy or after birth through skin contact.

Some women worry that having HPV means their labour will be more complicated or painful, but this isn’t supported by medical evidence. Labour typically progresses normally in women with HPV infections, and pain management options remain the same. Your healthcare team will monitor you, labour, or just as they would for any delivery, watching for typical signs of progress and any complications that might arise.

The decision about delivery mode should focus on standard obstetric factors: your baby’s position, pelvic size, previous delivery experiences, and your overall health status. HPV rarely influences these considerations, allowing you to make birth plans based on your preferences and standard medical recommendations.

If you have concerns about delivery with HPV, discussing them openly with your healthcare provider helps ensure you receive personalised guidance based on your specific situation. They can examine the extent of any visible warts, discuss your delivery preferences, and help you understand what to expect during labour and delivery.

HPV Screening & Management During Pregnancy

Navigating HPV screening during pregnancy follows established guidelines that balance thorough monitoring with the safety considerations unique to expectant mothers. Understanding these protocols helps you know what to expect during your prenatal care and why certain decisions are made about testing and treatment timing.

Routine Pap smears continue to be an essential component of prenatal care, and pregnancy doesn’t change the fundamental approach to cervical screening. If you’re due for a Pap smear based on standard screening intervals, your healthcare provider will typically perform this test during your first trimester. The procedure remains the same as when you’re not pregnant, and it’s entirely safe for both you and your developing baby.

When Pap smear results are abnormal, follow-up during pregnancy follows modified guidelines that prioritise both maternal health and pregnancy safety. If your results show low-grade abnormalities, your healthcare provider might recommend repeat testing in several months or defer additional evaluation until after delivery, depending on your individual circumstances and previous screening history.

For high-grade abnormalities that suggest more significant cellular changes, colposcopy – a detailed examination of the cervix using a special microscope – can be safely performed during pregnancy. This procedure allows your healthcare provider to closely examine areas of concern and determine whether immediate intervention is necessary or if monitoring until after delivery is appropriate.

Cervical biopsies, when necessary, can be performed during pregnancy, though they’re approached with extra caution. Small biopsies to diagnose concerning areas are generally safe, but more extensive procedures are typically deferred until after delivery unless there’s concern about invasive cancer. The decision about biopsy timing involves weighing the need for immediate diagnosis against potential pregnancy risks.

Treatment for cervical abnormalities usually waits until after delivery unless there’s an urgent medical necessity. Procedures like LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure) or cryotherapy are generally postponed because they’re not immediately necessary for most abnormalities and could potentially affect the cervix’s ability to remain closed during pregnancy. This conservative approach has proven safe and effective for managing most HPV-related cervical changes during pregnancy.

Genital warts present a different management challenge during pregnancy. While these warts are caused by low-risk HPV types that don’t lead to cancer, they can grow larger or multiply during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and natural immune suppression. Small, asymptomatic warts often require no treatment and may even resolve on their own after delivery.

When genital warts cause discomfort, interfere with hygiene, or grow large enough to potentially complicate delivery, treatment options exist that are safe during pregnancy. Trichloroacetic acid can be applied directly to warts, and surgical removal remains an option for problematic lesions. However, many treatments commonly used outside of pregnancy, such as imiquimod cream or podophyllin, are avoided during pregnancy due to safety concerns.

The emotional aspect of HPV management during pregnancy deserves attention alongside medical considerations. Receiving abnormal results or discovering HPV during pregnancy can cause significant anxiety, especially when treatment options are limited. Your healthcare team should provide clear explanations about why specific approaches are recommended and reassurance about the safety of deferring treatment when appropriate.

Regular communication with your healthcare provider throughout pregnancy ensures that any changes in your condition are promptly addressed. This might include monitoring the growth of genital warts, tracking any symptoms that develop, or adjusting follow-up timing based on your specific situation. The goal is to maintain your health while protecting your pregnancy and ensuring optimal outcomes for both you and your baby.

Documentation of your HPV status and any cervical abnormalities becomes essential for postpartum planning. Your healthcare team will use this information to schedule appropriate follow-up care after delivery, including more aggressive treatment options if needed. This continuity of care ensures that nothing falls through the cracks during the transition from prenatal to postpartum care.

HPV Vaccination and Pregnancy – What’s Safe and When

The intersection of HPV vaccination and pregnancy requires careful navigation of safety recommendations and timing considerations. Understanding current guidelines helps you make informed decisions about vaccination before, during, and after pregnancy while ensuring the best outcomes for both you and your baby.

Current medical guidelines clearly state that HPV vaccines should not be administered during pregnancy. This recommendation isn’t based on evidence of harm but rather on the principle of avoiding unnecessary interventions during pregnancy when safety data remains limited. The three FDA-approved HPV vaccines – Gardasil, Gardasil 9, and Cervarix – have not been studied extensively in pregnant women, leading to this conservative approach.

However, if you inadvertently received an HPV vaccine dose before knowing you were pregnant, there’s no need for alarm. Registry data following thousands of women who received HPV vaccines during early pregnancy shows no increased risk of birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse pregnancy outcomes. This reassuring data suggests that accidental vaccination during pregnancy doesn’t pose significant risks to your developing baby.

The timing of HPV vaccination ideally occurs well before pregnancy, as the vaccine works best when given before exposure to HPV. For women planning pregnancy, completing the HPV vaccine series before conceiving provides optimal protection. The vaccine series typically involves two or three doses given over six months, so planning ahead ensures completion before pregnancy attempts begin.

If you start the HPV vaccine series but become pregnant before completing all doses, the remaining doses should be delayed until after delivery. There’s no need to restart the series – you can simply resume where you left off postpartum. The immune system maintains memory of the initial doses, so the delayed completion still provides adequate protection.

Postpartum vaccination presents an excellent opportunity for women who haven’t completed the HPV vaccine series or haven’t been vaccinated at all. Breastfeeding doesn’t contraindicate HPV vaccination, and you can safely receive the vaccine while nursing without any risk to your baby. The vaccine components don’t pass into breast milk in amounts that could affect your infant.

Age considerations play a role in postpartum HPV vaccination decisions. The vaccine is most beneficial for individuals who haven’t been exposed to the HPV types that it protects against. While the CDC recommends routine vaccination through age 26, the vaccine can be given to women up to age 45 after discussing potential benefits with their healthcare provider.

For women who already have HPV infections, vaccination can still provide benefits by protecting against other HPV types not currently present. Since there are many different HPV types, having one infection doesn’t prevent others. The vaccine can provide protection against additional types, potentially preventing future cervical abnormalities or genital warts.

Partner vaccination represents another critical consideration for protecting your family’s health. If your partner hasn’t been vaccinated and falls within the recommended age range, they should consider getting the HPV vaccine. This approach helps reduce transmission risks and provides broader protection for your family unit.

Some women wonder whether having HPV during pregnancy affects future vaccination decisions. The answer is generally no – even if you’ve had HPV infections or cervical abnormalities, you can still benefit from vaccination against other HPV types. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether vaccination is appropriate for your situation.

The concept of herd immunity also supports broader HPV vaccination efforts. When more people in a community are vaccinated against HPV, the overall transmission rates decrease, providing indirect protection for everyone, including pregnant women who cannot be vaccinated and newborns who are too young for vaccination.

Planning for future pregnancies should include consideration of HPV vaccination status. If you’re planning additional children after your current pregnancy, completing the HPV vaccine series postpartum provides protection for subsequent pregnancies. This forward-thinking approach helps ensure optimal security for future reproductive health.

Insurance coverage for HPV vaccination varies, but many plans cover the vaccine for individuals within the recommended age ranges. Checking with your insurance provider about coverage can help you plan for postpartum vaccination. Some public health programs also provide free or low-cost HPV vaccines for eligible individuals.

Emotional & Psychological Considerations

Receiving a positive HPV test result or an abnormal Pap smear during pregnancy can trigger a complex mix of emotions that deserve acknowledgement and support. The psychological impact of an HPV diagnosis during this already emotionally charged time often extends beyond medical concerns, touching on feelings about sexuality, relationships, and fears about your baby’s health.

Many women experience initial shock and disbelief upon learning they have HPV, especially if they’ve been in what they believed to be a mutually monogamous relationship. Understanding that HPV can remain dormant for years, sometimes decades, before becoming detectable helps address concerns about when the infection occurred. This knowledge can prevent unnecessary relationship stress and self-blame during an already vulnerable time.

Guilt represents another typical emotional response, particularly among women who worry they’ve somehow endangered their pregnancy or baby. It’s crucial to understand that HPV is incredibly common – so common that most sexually active individuals will have it at some point. Having HPV doesn’t reflect poor judgment or risky behaviour; it simply.

Human Papillomavirus and Pregnancy: Risks, Effects, and What You Should Know

Getting an HPV diagnosis during pregnancy can feel overwhelming. Questions flood your mind: Will this affect my baby? Is my pregnancy at risk? Can I still have a standard delivery? These concerns are entirely natural, and you’re not alone in feeling this way.

Human papillomavirus during pregnancy is more common than many people realise. According to medical research, HPV affects millions of women of childbearing age, and many discover their status during routine prenatal care. The good news is that having HPV doesn’t mean your pregnancy is doomed or that serious complications are inevitable.

Understanding the facts about human papillomavirus and pregnancy can help you make informed decisions and reduce unnecessary anxiety. Most women with HPV have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. With proper medical care and monitoring, you can navigate this situation successfully.

Emotional & Psychological Considerations

Testing positive for HPV while pregnant often triggers a wave of emotions that can feel just as challenging as the medical aspects. The stigma surrounding sexually transmitted infections can make you feel isolated or ashamed, even though HPV is ubiquitous.

When I speak with patients who’ve received an HPV diagnosis during pregnancy, I often see the same pattern: initial shock, followed by guilt or embarrassment, and then worry about their partner’s reaction. These feelings are entirely normal, but they don’t need to define your experience.

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention emphasises that clear counselling and education help reduce both stigma and confusion around HPV. Understanding that this virus is widespread can provide some comfort. In fact, the CDC estimates that nearly all sexually active people will get at least one type of HPV at some point in their lives.

What makes HPV different from many other conditions is that it’s often transient. Your immune system frequently clears the infection on its own, sometimes without you ever knowing you had it. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect how your body handles HPV, but this doesn’t automatically mean problems for you or your baby.

The key is having a strong support system and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider. Many women find it helpful to:

• Talk openly with their partner about the diagnosis
• Join support groups or online communities for women with similar experiences
• Focus on the fact that HPV is manageable with proper medical care
• Remember that having HPV doesn’t reflect your character or worth as a person

Follow-up care and emotional support go hand in hand. Regular monitoring allows your doctor to track any changes, while counselling or support groups can help you process the emotional aspects of your diagnosis.

When to Consult Your Healthcare Provider

Knowing when to reach out to your healthcare provider can help you feel more in control of your situation. While routine prenatal visits will include monitoring for HPV-related issues, certain situations require immediate attention.

If you notice genital warts that seem to be growing rapidly, don’t wait for your next scheduled appointment. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can sometimes cause warts to grow larger or multiply more quickly than usual. While this sounds alarming, it’s manageable with proper medical intervention.

Physical obstruction during delivery is a rare but serious concern. If warts become large enough to block the birth canal, your doctor may recommend treatment before delivery or discuss cesarean section options. The good news is that with proper monitoring, this situation can usually be prevented or planned for in advance.

Does human papillomavirus affect pregnancy in terms of screening requirements? Yes, it often means more frequent monitoring. If your Pap test results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend additional procedures such as colposcopy or biopsy. These procedures can feel intimidating, but they’re essential tools for ensuring your health and your baby’s well-being.

A colposcopy involves using a special microscope to examine your cervix more closely. While it’s generally safe during pregnancy, the timing and approach may differ from thoseif you weren’t pregnant. Some doctors prefer to wait until after delivery for specific procedures, while others may proceed if they have concerns about precancerous changes.

Managing anxiety around HPV is another valid reason to consult your healthcare provider. If you’re losing sleep, feeling constantly worried, or finding it difficult to enjoy your pregnancy because of HPV concerns, professional support can help. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health during pregnancy.

When considering postpartum vaccination, having a conversation with your provider during pregnancy helps you plan ahead. The HPV vaccine isn’t recommended during pregnancy, but discussing it beforehand ensures you can get vaccinated as soon as possible after delivery.

Self-Care & Postpartum Planning

Taking care of yourself during and after pregnancy when you have HPV involves both immediate self-care and long-term planning. The postpartum period is actually an essential time for addressing HPV-related health needs that may have been deferred during pregnancy.

If your doctor recommended waiting until after delivery for specific treatments, scheduling follow-up care should be a priority. I understand that with a new baby, your own health might seem less important, but staying on top of HPV management protects your long-term health and your ability to care for your family.

Many procedures that are avoided during pregnancy, such as certain types of biopsies or treatments for abnormal cells, can be safely performed after delivery. Your doctor will typically recommend waiting until your body has had time to recover from childbirth, usually around six to twelve weeks postpartum.

The human papillomavirus vaccine and pregnancy don’t go together, but postpartum vaccination is highly recommended if you haven’t completed the series. Even if you already have one type of HPV, the vaccine can protect you against other high-risk types. This is particularly important if you’re planning to have more children in the future.

Is HPV common in pregnancy? Yes, and this means you’re part of a large community of women who’ve successfully navigated the same situation. Learning from others’ experiences and sharing your own can be part of your healing process.

Maintaining routine cervical screening according to medical guidelines becomes even more critical after having HPV during pregnancy. Your doctor may recommend more frequent Pap tests initially, then return to standard screening intervals once your results stabilise.

Postpartum planning should also include:

• Discussing family planning and how HPV might affect future pregnancies
• Understanding when it’s safe to resume nregularsexual activity
• Learning about ways to support your immune system naturally
• Planning for childcare during medical appointments

Remember that dormant HPV and pregnancy can be a complex topic. The virus can remain inactive in your system for years, then become active again during times of stress or immune system changes. This doesn’t mean you did anything wrong – it’s simply how HPV behaves in many people.

“Talk to Your OB—HPV is manageable, and you’re not alone.” Your obstetric care provider has experience helping women through HPV diagnoses during pregnancy and can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.

Extended FAQs

Can HPV cause pregnancy loss?

Current medical research shows that HPV infection alone does not increase the risk of miscarriage or pregnancy loss. While having any infection during pregnancy can feel concerning, HPV specifically has not been linked to increased rates of pregnancy loss. However, it’s essential to maintain regular prenatal care and follow your doctor’s recommendations for monitoring.

Is HPV common in pregnancy?

Yes, HPV is quite common during pregnancy. Studies suggest that HPV prevalence among pregnant women ranges from 15% to 40%, depending on the population studied. Many women first discover they have HPV through routine prenatal screening. The high prevalence means that healthcare providers are experienced in managing HPV during pregnancy.

Does HPV affect fertility or the ability to get pregnant?

For most women, HPV does not affect fertility or the ability to conceive. However, if HPV leads to precancerous changes that require treatment (such as procedures to remove abnormal cervical tissue), there could be potential impacts on future fertility. These effects are generally minimal, but it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider if you’re planning future pregnancies.

Can your partner’s HPV affect your pregnancy?

If your partner has HPV and you don’t, there’s a theoretical risk of transmission during pregnancy, but this doesn’t typically cause immediate problems for your current pregnancy. HPV transmission between partners is standard, and many couples share the same HPV types without knowing it. The focus should be on managing any existing HPV rather than worrying about partner transmission during pregnancy.

Can I get pregnant with HPV?

Absolutely. Having HPV does not prevent you from getting pregnant or having a healthy pregnancy. Millions of women with HPV conceive naturally and have successful pregnancies. The key is working with your healthcare provider to manage the infection and monitor for any changes that might need attention.

My husband has HPV, and we want to have a baby – is this safe?

Yes, it’s generally safe to conceive when one or both partners have HPV. Many couples in this situation go on to have healthy pregnancies and babies. The important thing is to discuss your situation with a healthcare provider who can assess your specific circumstances and providepersonalisedd guidance. They may recommend certain precautions or monitoring, but HPV alone shouldn’t prevent you from trying to conceive.

Remember, is HPV dangerous during pregnancy? For most women, the answer is no. While it requires monitoring and occasional treatment, HPV is a manageable condition that doesn’t have to derail your pregnancy plans or experience. Focus on maintaining good communication with your healthcare team and taking care of your overall health.