HPV and Pregnancy
Is HPV Risky During Pregnancy?

The Course of Genital Warts During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, genital warts may grow, increase in number or turn into a structure that bleeds more easily. The main reason for this is hormonal changes and the suppression of the immune system.

After birth, as the immune system returns to normal, the warts usually shrink and, in some patients, may even disappear completely.

Can HPV Be Transmitted to the Baby?

The transmission of HPV from mother to baby (vertical transmission) is possible but rare. Transmission can usually occur through contact during birth.

In very rare cases, the development of warts in the respiratory tract, called laryngeal papillomatosis, may be seen in the baby. However, this complication occurs at quite low rates.

What Should the Mode of Delivery Be in HPV-Positive Pregnant Women?

In pregnant women who are HPV carriers but do not have genital warts, there is no strong scientific evidence to support routinely recommending a caesarean section.

In pregnant women with genital warts, the situation is assessed on a patient-by-patient basis:

• If the warts are blocking the birth canal
• If there is a risk of heavy bleeding
• If serious trauma is expected during birth

In these situations, a caesarean section may be preferred. However, there is not enough evidence to automatically recommend a caesarean section for all pregnant women who are HPV-positive or have genital warts.

Does a Caesarean Section Protect the Baby?

There are no clear and strong studies showing that a caesarean section significantly reduces vertical transmission. In addition, HPV infection can also be reported in the babies of mothers with genital warts who gave birth by caesarean section.

For this reason, the decision on the mode of delivery should be made through an individual risk assessment.

Genital Wart Treatment During Pregnancy

Although treatment options during pregnancy are limited, they are possible. The methods considered safe are:

• Laser treatment
• Cryotherapy (freezing)
• Electrocautery (burning)
• Surgical excision

These methods can be applied at any stage of pregnancy. The treatment decision is made according to the size and number of the warts and the patient's clinical condition.

Being HPV-positive does not mean that you cannot have a healthy pregnancy. With the right follow-up and appropriate management, a safe process can be ensured for both mother and baby.

Follow-up Recommendations in HPV and Pregnancy

• Regular gynaecological check-ups
• Smear and HPV test follow-up
• Early intervention if there is rapid growth of the warts
• A lifestyle that supports the immune system