Effect of Genital Warts During Pregnancy

Posted By : Ellen

Symptoms of Genital Warts in Pregnancy

Generally, external genital warts are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) and is a common sexually transmitted infection that affects up to 75% of men and women who are sexually active. There are many strains of HPV, and some of them will result in the development of genital warts. These are contagious and can easily spread from person to person via sexual activity.  These warts are normally seen externally around the vagina, anus, in the rectum, or on the cervix.   They are usually soft and skin-colored, varying in size. These warts are usually painless inspite of occasionally itching, burning or bleeding.

For many women, the warts will resolve on their own and may disappear within a few months. If not, treatment is effective in clearing the warts up. Some strains of HPV have been noted to alter cells that cancer can result; but not generally found in the strain of HPV linked to genital warts. However it is recommended to get regular Pap smears to assure your overall health if one is sexually active.

The strain of HPV that results in genital warts while pregnant, it is not likely to affect the health of your baby. Genital warts have been shown to grow faster during pregnancy due to discharge and changes in hormones and immune system.  But genital warts during pregnancy are not generally considered to pose a serious risk to you or your baby. However, in rare cases, the mothers have passed on the HPV that causes warts to their unborn baby, but the baby is usually able to overcome the symptoms on their own or through early medical intervention by the doctor.

Treatment for Genital Warts While Pregnant

Treatment of genital warts may vary from case to case during pregnancy.  However, since the warts themselves do not usually cause any complications in pregnancy, your doctor may opt to not to treat the warts during pregnancy period.This may increase its growth but will not pose any threat to your health during pregnancy. However, there are plenty for safe methods for removing genital warts during pregnancy which includes freezing, surgical, or laser removal. In many cases, if you are taking prescription medication for genital warts, the doctor may recommend you stop using it during pregnancy period.