Genital warts are usually caused by low-risk HPV types, particularly HPV 6 and 11. However, an HPV infection may require appropriate cervical screening and follow-up.
If HPV causes abnormal changes in cervical cells and these become significant, procedures on the cervix may sometimes affect future pregnancy. Therefore, having genital warts does not automatically mean that you will have fertility problems.
Can You Try to Get Pregnant With Genital Warts?
If you are planning to conceive, discuss your condition with your gynaecologist. Before trying to conceive, discuss whether you need treatment, cervical screening, STI testing or other pre-pregnancy care with your doctor. Dr Vinatha recommends staying up to date with recommended cervical screening. If abnormal cervical cells are detected, your doctor may advise further evaluation before or during pregnancy, depending on the findings. HPV can also be transmitted between sexual partners. Using condoms can reduce, but does not completely eliminate, the risk of transmission.Can Genital Warts Affect Pregnancy?
Pregnancy can sometimes cause genital warts to become larger or increase in number. They may also become more noticeable because of hormonal and immune changes.The risk of passing HPV to the baby during pregnancy or birth is considered low. In rare cases, certain HPV types can be associated with respiratory papillomatosis in children.
Genital warts alone are generally not a reason for a caesarean birth. A caesarean may occasionally be considered if the warts are so extensive that they could interfere with vaginal delivery or cause significant bleeding.
Should Genital Warts Be Treated Before Pregnancy?
Some genital warts may disappear without treatment, while others can remain or return after treatment. Treatment removes visible warts but does not directly eliminate HPV from the body.If you are planning a pregnancy, tell your doctor before using any wart treatment. Certain medicines, including podophyllin, podofilox and sinecatechins, should not be used during pregnancy. Imiquimod is also generally avoided during pregnancy because there is not enough safety information.
Dr Vinatha points out that treatment options differ during pregnancy because some wart medications are not suitable for use while pregnant. If treatment is needed, your doctor can choose an appropriate option based on the size, location and symptoms of the warts.
What Should You Know Before Planning Pregnancy?
If you have genital warts and want to conceive, a pre-pregnancy appointment can be useful. You can discuss:- Your previous HPV or cervical screening results
- Any history of abnormal cervical cells
- Current genital wart treatments
- Other STI testing, if appropriate
- HPV vaccination if you are eligible and not pregnant
- Folic acid and other routine pre-pregnancy care
Continue the recommended cervical screening according to your doctor's advice. Having genital warts does not remove the need for routine cervical screening.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Arrange a medical assessment if you notice new genital growths, particularly if they:- Grow quickly or become painful
- Bleed repeatedly
- Change in appearance
- Return after treatment
- Occur with unusual vaginal discharge or other symptoms
If you have any unexplained genital growths, always get them assessed by your doctor, especially if you are planning pregnancy.
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FAQs on Genital Warts, Fertility and Pregnancy Planning
- Can I get pregnant if I have genital warts?
Yes. Genital warts themselves do not usually affect fertility or prevent pregnancy. However, discuss any HPV-related cervical abnormalities or treatments with your doctor before trying to conceive. - Should I remove genital warts before trying to conceive?
Not necessarily. The appropriateness of treatment mainly depends on the size, location and symptoms of the warts. - Can genital warts harm my baby during pregnancy?
The risk of passing HPV to a baby during pregnancy or delivery is low. Most women with genital warts can have a normal pregnancy.