Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that can cause an infection thats spread through skin-to-skin contact.
It can also cause some cancers later in life.
You may not havesymptoms of HPV, but you may have already been infected with the virus.
Oscar Wong / Getty Images
The reasons for these issues with fertility come from the effect that the virus can have on reproductive tissues.
Is HPV Hereditary?
HPV is not hereditary, but it can be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy or delivery.
The virus is not likely to be passed on to your fetus through breastmilk.
With some strains of HPV, your immune system is able to keep the infection in check.
In more advanced infections, reproductive tissue is altered, and this can cause problems for a pregnancy.
Infections may not be symptomatic.
Barrier contraceptives like condoms can reduce transmission, but they wont prevent infection entirely.
Treatment
There is no real treatment for HPV.
In many cases, the infection will resolve on its own.
Some treatments, especially for certain cancers, may affect your ability to care for yourself and others.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is generally not a concern for people with HPV.
An HPV infection has been associated with preterm birth, low birth weight, and intrauterine growth restriction.
A Word From Verywell
HPV is a common virus that can cause serious complications like cervical cancer.
Fertility treatments like in-vitro fertilization may help if HPV has caused you or your partner fertility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does HPV affect pregnancy and childbirth?
In most cases, HPV will not harm your fetus, but it may be passed on to them.
When do they test for HPV while pregnant?
Testing will usually include screening for HPV and cervical cancers.
How can you get pregnant if you have HPV?
it’s possible for you to still get pregnant if you have HPV.
In some cases, male partners may have decreased sperm counts or motility due to the HPV infection.
How can you get pregnant and not pass on HPV?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About genital HPV infection.
Reproductive concerns of HPV-positive women: A qualitative study.Reprod Health.
2019;55(7):377. doi:10.3390/medicina55070377
Cleveland Clinic.Human papilloma virus.
