HPV after diagnosis in pregnancy

Overview

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus that can cause genital warts or changes in cells of the cervix (the lower part of the womb). Most people with HPV have no symptoms and the infection clears on its own. If you are diagnosed with HPV during pregnancy, it usually does not harm the baby, but it may need careful monitoring.

Yes, HPV is very common. Many pregnant women have HPV without knowing it, because it often causes no symptoms.

HPV affects both men and women, but in pregnancy it is mostly diagnosed in women through routine cervical screening (Pap smear). It can also affect pregnant women who have genital warts.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Most people with HPV have no symptoms at all.
• Genital warts – small bumps or growths on the genitals or around the anus. They may be flesh-coloured, pink, or brown.
• Abnormal cells on the cervix that are found during a Pap smear – these usually cause no symptoms.

Symptoms in children

• Very rarely, a baby can get HPV during birth and develop growths in the throat (laryngeal papillomatosis). This is not common.

Symptoms in older adults

• In people over 30, persistent HPV can sometimes lead to abnormal cell changes that may develop into cervical cancer if not treated.

Causes

Main causes

• HPV is caused by the human papillomavirus, which is spread through skin-to-skin contact, usually during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
• The virus can be passed even if the infected person has no symptoms.

Risk factors

• Having multiple sexual partners.
• Having a weakened immune system (for example, due to HIV or certain medications).
• Smoking tobacco.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe vaginal bleeding or sudden severe pelvic pain.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have routine prenatal care and have been told you have HPV, follow up with your OB/GYN or midwife as recommended.
• If you notice new genital warts or changes in existing ones.

Diagnosis

HPV is often found during a routine cervical screening test (Pap smear) that checks for abnormal cells on the cervix. Sometimes a test specifically for the virus (HPV DNA test) is done. Genital warts are usually diagnosed by a doctor looking at them.

Tests that may be done

• Pap smear (cervical screening) – a sample of cells is taken from your cervix and checked for changes.
• HPV DNA test – a swab that looks for the virus itself.
• Colposcopy – a special magnifying exam of the cervix if the Pap smear shows abnormal cells.

What to expect at your appointment

If you are pregnant and diagnosed with HPV, your doctor will likely do a colposcopy to look at the cervix closely. This is safe in pregnancy. Most treatments are postponed until after you give birth, but you will be monitored.

Treatment

In most cases, HPV does not need treatment during pregnancy because it often clears by itself. If you have genital warts, they may be treated to reduce discomfort or prevent them from growing. Treatment for abnormal cervical cells is usually delayed until after delivery.

Self-care at home

• Keep the genital area clean and dry.
• Avoid touching or picking at warts.
• Wear cotton underwear and loose clothing to reduce irritation.
• Do not use over-the-counter wart treatments without talking to your doctor – some are not safe in pregnancy.

Medical treatments

If treatment is needed, doctors may use cryotherapy (freezing warts), laser therapy, or topical treatments that are safe during pregnancy. For cervical cell changes, a procedure called LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision) may be done after delivery.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery (like LEEP or conization) is usually only considered after pregnancy if high-grade cervical changes persist.

Living with this condition

Having HPV during pregnancy is common. Continue your regular prenatal appointments. Follow your doctor's advice about when to repeat Pap smears or HPV tests after the baby is born.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid smoking – it makes HPV harder to clear.
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques like deep breathing, gentle walking, or talking to a counsellor.
• Practice safe sex – condoms can reduce the risk of passing HPV to a partner.

Diet and exercise

Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables – this supports your immune system. Gentle exercise, like walking or prenatal yoga, is fine unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is normal to feel worried or anxious about having HPV while pregnant, especially about passing it to the baby. Remember that the risk to the baby is very low. Talk to your healthcare provider about your concerns.

Prevention

The HPV vaccine can prevent many types of HPV, but it is given before pregnancy. During pregnancy, you cannot get the vaccine. Using condoms can reduce the chance of getting HPV, but does not fully prevent it.

Vaccines

The HPV vaccine is recommended for people aged 11–26, but not during pregnancy. If you are not pregnant yet, ask your doctor about getting vaccinated.

Screening programmes

Regular cervical screening (Pap smears) is the best way to catch HPV-related changes early. Follow the recommended schedule after your baby is born.

Complications

If left untreated

• Genital warts may grow larger or cause discomfort (but rarely cause serious problems).
• Some types of HPV can lead to cervical cell changes that may progress to cervical cancer over many years if not followed up.

Long-term outlook

The outlook is very good. Most HPV infections clear on their own, and with regular monitoring, any changes can be caught and treated early. During pregnancy, HPV rarely affects the baby. After delivery, most women can be treated if needed and have healthy outcomes.

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