Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common infection, and expectant parents often wonder about its potential impact on their child. While HPV can be transmitted from a mother to her infant, this occurrence is generally rare. This article clarifies the pathways of HPV transmission from mother to child and discusses related health considerations for the infant.
How HPV Can Be Transmitted
The primary way HPV can pass from a mother to her infant is through vertical transmission during a vaginal birth. As the baby moves through the birth canal, it may come into contact with HPV lesions on the mother’s cervix or vagina. This direct exposure allows for the transfer of the virus.
In-utero transmission (through the placenta or amniotic fluid) is rare, though HPV DNA has been detected in these samples. Even when a mother has HPV, transmission to the baby is not guaranteed. Low-risk HPV types, such as HPV 6 and 11, are most commonly associated with vertical transmission and can cause benign lesions like genital warts.
Potential Health Impacts on the Child
If an infant contracts HPV, the most significant, though uncommon, health consequence is Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP). RRP involves benign, wart-like growths, primarily in the larynx (voice box), but they can appear anywhere in the respiratory tract. Symptoms include hoarseness, a weak cry in infants, noisy breathing, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing.
Children with RRP, often diagnosed between one and four years of age, may require repeated surgeries to remove growths and maintain a clear airway. While RRP is generally non-cancerous, it can lead to severe airway obstruction if left untreated. Other manifestations, like genital warts in infants, are exceedingly rare.
Minimizing Risks During Pregnancy and Birth
Routine prenatal care, including Pap tests, plays a role in monitoring a pregnant person’s cervical health. If abnormal cervical cell changes are detected, healthcare providers observe them during pregnancy, as hormonal shifts can sometimes increase changes. Treatment for these changes is typically postponed until after childbirth to avoid potential complications like premature labor.
A cesarean section is not routinely recommended for mothers with HPV unless large genital warts block the birth canal or cause significant bleeding during vaginal delivery. Most mothers with HPV can deliver vaginally without increasing the risk to the baby. While HPV vaccination is not recommended during pregnancy, vaccination before conception can serve as a preventative measure for the mother. Open communication with healthcare providers is important for personalized advice on HPV management during pregnancy and delivery.