Human papillomavirus, also known as HPV, infects between half a million to a million people each year in the United States, according to the University of California, San Francisco. Over 80 different strains of HPV exist, and at least 20 affect the genital tract, often causing genital warts. During pregnancy, certain parts of the immune system work less effectively, allowing genital warts to grow more rapidly than normal. Warts can cause bleeding, itching or pain. Complications before or after delivery can ensue.
Cesarean Delivery
Genital warts often increase in size and number during pregnancy due to immune changes, hormonal changes and increased blood volume. If warts in the vagina grow very large, they can block the vaginal passage and make vaginal delivery difficult. Warts in the vagina can also reduce elasticity of the vagina, reducing its ability to stretch during delivery, according to MayoClinic.com. A cesarean delivery may be necessary in these cases. Cesarean delivery is not routinely recommended for women with genital warts, because the risk of transmission to the fetus is low.
Urinary Complications
Enlarging genital warts can also block the flow of urine from the urethra. Warts that interfere with normal urine flow can increase the risk of urinary tract infection, which can cause preterm labor is some women. Cryotherapy, or freezing, can be used to remove internal or external genital warts safely in pregnancy, according to the Australia and New Zealand HPV Project.
Newborn Complications
A newborn can be infected with the HPV virus during pregnancy or delivery, even if a cesarean delivery is performed. Usually, his immune system fights it off in its own, eMedTV reports. In rare cases, genital warts can grow in the baby's throat, a condition called laryngeal papillomatosis, making breathing difficult and requiring surgery. Warts can also grow on the baby's eyelids. Warts can develop up to 5 years after birth, eMedTV adds.
