Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common viruses spread through skin-to-skin contact, mostly during sex. Most people who get it don’t even know they have it. That’s because HPV often shows no signs at all.
But one question keeps coming up, especially among couples trying to have a baby: Can HPV cause infertility?
It’s a fair concern.
Some types of HPV can lead to cancer in the cervix. In some cases, this may affect fertility. But not always. The truth is, the link between HPV and infertility isn’t so clear-cut. There are many factors that play a role — both for men and women.
This blog will walk you through the facts. You’ll learn what science says about HPV’s effects on fertility. We’ll talk about what happens in both men and women, what risks are real, and how to protect your chances of having a baby in the future.
What Is HPV?
HPV stands for human papillomavirus. It’s a group of over 150 viruses. You can get it from skin-to-skin contact, usually during sex. You don’t need to have full sex to get it. Even simple contact with an infected area can spread the virus.
According to the CDC, about 13 million new HPV infections happen in the U.S. each year.
There are two main types of HPV:
- Low-risk types, like HPV 6 and 11, can cause skin warts or genital warts. These types don’t lead to cancer.
- High-risk types, such as HPV 16 and 18, can lead to cancer in the cervix, anus, or throat. These are the types doctors watch closely.
HPV enters the body through tiny cuts in the skin or mucous areas. It infects the cells at the surface. Most people’s immune systems clear the virus on their own within one or two years. But in some cases, the virus stays and causes changes in cells.
This is why HPV is linked to serious health risks in some people, even though it’s very common and often goes away on its own.
Can HPV Cause Infertility in Women?
HPV on its own does not usually cause infertility. But in some cases, it may affect a woman’s chances of getting or staying pregnant — not because of the virus itself, but because of what happens when it leads to other issues.
Let’s explain how.
Some types of HPV can lead to abnormal cells in the cervix. If these cells aren’t treated, they may turn into cancer. To stop this, doctors may need to remove the damaged cells.
These treatments include:
- LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) – uses a thin wire with an electric current to take out bad tissue.
- Cone biopsy – removes a small cone-shaped part of the cervix.
- Cryotherapy – freezes and kills the abnormal cells.
These treatments can have an impact on fertility. They can also narrow the cervix (cervical stenosis) and make it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg. In some, they may also weaken the cervix, causing issues in later stages of pregnancy.
It’s important to note that HPV doesn’t damage the ovaries or eggs, and most women who undergo these treatments can still have healthy pregnancies.
But if you’ve had any of these procedures, and are concerned about high fertility in a woman, it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor. They can assess your cervix to ensure it’s strong enough for pregnancy.
Can HPV Cause Infertility in Men?
HPV can live in semen. That’s been confirmed by many studies over the past few years. But what does it mean for male fertility?
HPV does not block sperm or stop the body from making it. But it may harm sperm quality.
A 2023 meta-analysis published in Andrologia reviewed 21 studies and found men with HPV in semen had:
- Lower sperm motility (slow swimmers)
- Poorer DNA structure
- Higher rates of abnormal shape
These issues may lower the chance of fertilizing an egg. They may also raise the risk of early miscarriage.
One 2022 study from Italy even found HPV DNA in up to 16% of semen samples from men with no symptoms. That’s a major sign that the virus can spread even if there are no outward signs.
Researchers believe HPV may bind to sperm and travel with it. This means the virus could pass into the female body through sperm during sex. Though more studies are needed, some experts now say that HPV might reduce fertility in men — not by killing sperm, but by lowering their function.
Still, this research is new. Doctors don’t yet test sperm for HPV as a routine step in fertility checks. But if a man has had HPV or warts and is facing trouble conceiving, this may be worth bringing up with a urologist.
Does HPV Affect a Couple’s Ability to Conceive?
HPV does not fully block a couple from getting pregnant. But it may add to the risk of problems along the way.
In women, some types of HPV can change the cells in the cervix. In men, it may hurt sperm quality. And if both partners have HPV, the virus could lower embryo health in the early stages after fertilization.
One 2024 paper in Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology showed that couples where both partners had HPV were more likely to face early pregnancy loss compared to those without it.
That doesn’t mean the virus makes pregnancy impossible. Many people with HPV go on to have healthy babies.
But if a couple has been trying for over 12 months without success, doctors may suggest testing for HPV and other STIs, along with full fertility screening. Other factors—like smoking, poor diet, or stress—can also affect chances.
So while HPV might not be the sole reason, it’s one piece of the larger picture when looking at why pregnancy isn’t happening.
HPV and Pregnancy: What If You’re Already Pregnant?
If you’re pregnant and have HPV, don’t panic. In most cases, HPV does not harm the baby or the pregnancy.
The virus stays in the cells of the cervix. It doesn’t enter the womb or reach the baby. However, your doctor may check your cervix more often during prenatal visits to ensure everything is normal, as women’s health is a priority during pregnancy.
Routine care may include:
- Pap smear
- HPV DNA test
- Colposcopy (if abnormal cells are found)
The biggest concern during pregnancy is genital warts. These can grow faster due to pregnancy hormones. If they’re large or bleeding, your doctor may remove them.
In rare cases, a C-section might be advised. This is only if warts are big enough to block the birth canal. But it’s not routine. Most women with HPV give birth vaginally.
Passing the virus to the baby is rare. If it happens, the baby may develop a condition called recurrent respiratory papillomatosis—warts in the throat. But this is very uncommon.
Doctors agree: HPV alone is not a reason to worry during pregnancy. Just keep up with checkups and let your OB-GYN know if you’ve had abnormal Pap tests before.
Does the HPV Vaccine Affect Fertility?
There’s a common myth that the HPV vaccine causes infertility. This is not true. In fact, the vaccine can protect fertility in the long run.
The HPV vaccine helps prevent infection with the high-risk types of HPV. This includes the strains that cause cervical dysplasia—abnormal cell changes that, if untreated, can lead to cervical cancer. These changes can harm fertility, especially if they require treatments like LEEP or cone biopsy.
By getting vaccinated, you’re lowering the risk of these cervical changes, which helps preserve your fertility. Studies have shown that vaccination reduces the likelihood of developing these serious cervical issues.
The vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys, typically at ages 11 or 12. But if you’re an adult, it’s never too late to get vaccinated. The benefits for future pregnancies include lower risk of HPV-related fertility issues.
So, if you’re planning for a baby in the future, the HPV vaccine can be a helpful step. It’s one of the most effective ways to reduce the risks that HPV poses to fertility.
HPV Diagnosis and Fertility Monitoring
If you’re concerned about HPV and fertility, it’s important to get tested regularly.
For women, the most common tests are the Pap smear and HPV test. A Pap smear looks for abnormal cells on the cervix, which can be caused by HPV. The HPV test checks for the presence of high-risk strains of the virus.
If these tests come back abnormal, early treatment is essential to avoid long-term fertility issues. HPV monitoring can help doctors spot potential problems early and recommend the right steps to protect your health and fertility.
Men don’t have an approved HPV test yet, though researchers are working on developing better ways to test for the virus in semen. Still, even without a formal test for men, if there are concerns about fertility, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor.
If you’re trying to conceive, here are a few things you can ask your doctor:
- “What are my options for HPV testing?”
- “How can I protect my fertility while living with HPV?”
- “Should I and my partner both get tested for HPV?”
Having an open discussion with your doctor can help you understand your fertility options and any steps you may need to take. Regular screenings can give you peace of mind and allow you to make proactive decisions for your health.
How to Protect Your Fertility If You Have HPV
If you have HPV, it doesn’t automatically mean that you will have fertility problems, but instead, it’s essential to take the correct measures to safeguard your reproductive health.
Here’s how to protect your fertility:
- Condom use: Condoms are successful in preventing HPV transmission and reinfection during sexual contacts.
- Get regular screening: Pap smears and HPV tests are crucial for spotting abnormal cell changes early. Regular testing helps catch problems before they become serious.
- Cure abnormal cells early: If your tests show abnormal cells, early treatment can help prevent high-risk conditions. Procedures such as LEEP or cone biopsy can remove abnormal tissue, which can help preserve your fertility in the long term.
- Live a healthy lifestyle: Good immune defense clears HPV faster. Maintain a healthy body: eat a balanced diet, exercise and don’t smoke.
But if you have HPV and want to get pregnant, it’s best to speak with a fertility expert. They can help you navigate treatment options and clarify your risks.
Last Words
The good news is, HPV doesn’t usually cause infertility directly. Most people with HPV will not have trouble getting pregnant.
However, some treatments for HPV-related issues, like cervical treatments, may affect fertility. It’s also possible for HPV to impact sperm quality in men, which could contribute to fertility challenges.
The best way to protect your fertility is to get vaccinated, get regular screenings, and seek early treatment if needed. Vaccination, especially at a young age, can prevent the serious consequences of HPV, including those that could affect your fertility later in life.
If you’re concerned about HPV and fertility, talk to your doctor. Stay informed, and take proactive steps to protect your health and your future family.
FAQs
Can HPV make you infertile?
HPV itself doesn’t usually cause infertility. But the complications of untreated HPV, or the treatments for HPV-related issues, might impact fertility.
Can you get pregnant if you have HPV?
Yes, many people with HPV successfully conceive and deliver healthy babies. HPV doesn’t usually block pregnancy, but certain treatments may impact fertility.
Should men get tested for HPV if facing fertility issues?
While there’s no approved test for HPV in men, semen analysis can help assess sperm health. If you’re struggling with fertility, discussing HPV with a urologist might be helpful.
