Human Papillomavirus or HPV , is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally. It is so widespread that nearly every sexually active person will get it at some point in their lives. While many cases are harmless and clear up on their own , HPV is also associated with more serious health issues like cervical cancer. But an often-asked question remains , Can HPV cause infertility?
The answer is not entirely black and white. While HPV does not directly cause infertility in women , it can lead to complications that increase the risk of infertility , particularly if left untreated. In this article , we shall explore how HPV can cause infertility in women through indirect effects , how it may impact male fertility , and what steps can be taken to reduce these risks.
What Is HPV ? A Brief Overview
HPV is a group of more than 200 related viruses. Some types cause warts (like genital warts) while others are high risk strains that can lead to various cancers including:
- Cervical cancer
- Vaginal and vulvar cancer
- Throat and anal cancers
HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact , typically during vagina l, anal or oral removed. Most infections are asymptomatic and resolve naturally within two years , especially in healthy individuals.
However , persistent high risk HPV infections can cause serious reproductive health issues.
Can HPV Cause Infertility ?
The Direct Answer: No but It is Complicated
HPV does not directly destroy eggs , damage ovaries or block fallopian tubes. However , the complications associated with HPV , particularly in women , can contribute to infertility.
Break this down further.
How HPV Causes Infertility in Women Indirect Pathways
1. Cervical Dysplasia and Cancer
High risk HPV types (like HPV 16 and 18) are the main causes of cervical dysplasia— abnormal changes in cervical cells— which can progress to cervical cancer.
How This Affects Fertility:
- Cervical cancer treatments (surgery , radiation or chemotherapy) can affect the reproductive organs.
- Procedures like cone biopsy or LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) , which remove abnormal cervical cells , may weaken the cervix , potentially leading to miscarriage or preterm birth.
- In advanced cancer cases , a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be necessary , ending fertility entirely.
2. Chronic Inflammation and Infection
HPV does not typically cause symptoms but in some women , it may trigger chronic inflammation of the cervix.
Why This Matters:
- Chronic inflammation may interfere with cervical mucus quality , which plays a vital role in sperm movement.
- It can also create an environment less hospitable to sperm or embryo implantation.
3. HPV and Assisted Reproductive Technology
Some studies suggest that women with high risk HPV may have lower success rates with procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI).
Possible Explanations:
- HPV may alter endometrial receptivity .
- Infection could lead to higher rates of embryo rejection or reduced implantation success .
While more research is needed , these findings suggest a possible fertility impact , even in women without symptoms.
Does HPV Affect Male Fertility ?
Yes , it can though research is still evolving.
Studies show that HPV can attach to sperm and:
- Reduce sperm motility (how well sperm swim)
- Damage DNA in sperm cells
- Increase miscarriage risk by affecting embryo quality
While HPV does not directly cause male infertility , it may lower the chances of successful conception especially in couples undergoing fertility treatments.
How to Know If HPV Is Affecting Your Fertility
Because HPV is usually asymptomatic , many women do not know they have it until they undergo a Pap smear. Or HPV test during a routine gynecological exam.
If you are having trouble conceiving and suspect HPV could be a factor:
- Ask your doctor about HPV testing (available for women)
- Discuss your Pap smear results
- Consider fertility testing to rule out other causes
Can You Still Get Pregnant With HPV?
Yes. Most women with HPV can still get pregnant and have healthy pregnancies. HPV is extremely common and in most cases:
- It does not prevent conception
- It does not harm the baby
- It clears from the body within 1–2 years
However if complications like cervical dysplasia or cancer occur , treatment may affect future fertility. This is why early detection and routine screenings are crucial.
Preventing HPV Related Infertility , What You Can Do?
1. Get Vaccinated
The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) protects against the most dangerous HPV strains. It is recommended for:
- Preteens aged 11–12 (before removed activity begins)
- Anyone up to age 26 who has not been fully vaccinated
- Adults up to age 45 in some cases (ask your doctor)
Vaccination can prevent the infections that lead to cervical changes , reducing infertility risk.
2. Regular Screenings
Routine Pap smears and HPV testing help detect abnormal cervical changes early , allowing for treatment before they affect fertility.
Screening recommendations:
- Every 3 years for women aged 21–29 (Pap smear)
- Every 5 years for women 30–65 (Pap + HPV test)
3. Practice Safe removed
- Use condoms or dental dams to reduce HPV transmission.
- Limit the number of removed partners to lower exposure risk.
- Open communication with partners about STI status.
4. Manage Any Diagnosed HPV Infection
If you have been diagnosed with HPV:
- Follow your doctor is monitoring and treatment plan
- Avoid skipping followup visits
- Discuss fertility plans with your provider if concerned
What If You Already Have HPV and Want to Get Pregnant?
Take these steps:
- Ensure regular cervical screenings
- Treat any cervical abnormalities early
- Boost your overall reproductive health through diet , lifestyle and medical guidance
- Consider seeing a fertility specialist if you have tried for over 6–12 months without success
Conclusion
To recap HPV does not directly cause infertility , but it can lead to conditions that increase infertility risk , especially in women. HPV related cervical changes , chronic inflammation , or necessary treatments like surgery or hysterectomy can all impact a woman’s ability to conceive and carry a pregnancy.
However , with early detection , routine care and HPV vaccinatio, these risks can be significantly reduced. If you are concerned about your fertility or have an HPV diagnosis , talk to your healthcare provider. They can guide you through personalized care options to preserve your fertility and maintain reproductive health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can HPV cause miscarriage or birth defects ?
HPV does not cause birth defects. Some research links high risk HPV to higher miscarriage risk , especially if male sperm carries the virus but more studies are needed.
2. Can you still get the HPV vaccine after infection?
Yes. The vaccine would not cure an existing infection , but it can protect you from other HPV strains and reduce your risk of developing complications.
3. Should I delay trying to conceive if I have HPV?
Not necessarily. Speak with your doctor first. Most HPV infections clear naturally and do not affect pregnancy.