Can Men with HPV Prepare for Pregnancy? Essential Insights

How should men prepare for conception if they have an HPV infection?

Hello, Doctor.
At the beginning of the year, my wife and I started preparing for pregnancy.
My wife’s Pap smear and HPV tests came back negative, but during my preconception check-up, I discovered that I have a high-risk HPV type 16 (the sample was collected directly from the area near the penis by the doctor).
The doctor prescribed methisoprinol, and I have been taking it for two months, but I still tested positive for four strains.
The doctor suggested continuing methisoprinol for another two months and then retesting, repeating this cycle until I test negative.
In this situation, aside from the endless cycle of medication and testing, can we still try to conceive? If I continue to test positive for several months, will we have to postpone our attempts to conceive until I test negative? Both of us are getting older, and we really don’t want to delay any further.
Thank you, Doctor.

Lemon, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/07

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Infection with HPV should not affect your fertility plans.
It is recommended to consult your attending physician during your next appointment for further advice.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2023/08/07

More Info

When it comes to preparing for pregnancy, the presence of HPV (Human Papillomavirus) in men can raise concerns, particularly regarding its potential impact on fertility and the health of the partner. In your case, you have been diagnosed with HPV type 16, which is considered a high-risk strain associated with certain cancers, including cervical cancer. However, it is important to understand how this affects your ability to conceive and what precautions you may need to take.

Firstly, it is essential to note that HPV is a very common sexually transmitted infection, and many individuals who are infected may not show any symptoms. In men, HPV often does not lead to serious health issues, and many will clear the virus naturally over time. The fact that your wife has tested negative for HPV is a positive sign, as it indicates that she is not currently infected and is less likely to contract the virus from you during conception.

Regarding your treatment with methisoprinol, it is a medication that is sometimes used to help the immune system fight viral infections, including HPV. However, the effectiveness of this treatment can vary, and it may take time for the virus to clear from your system. Continuous testing and treatment may feel frustrating, especially when you are eager to start a family.
In terms of whether you can proceed with trying to conceive while still testing positive for HPV, the consensus among medical professionals is that HPV infection in men does not significantly affect fertility. Therefore, you and your wife can consider proceeding with your plans to conceive. However, it is advisable to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your HPV status and any ongoing treatments. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

If you are concerned about the potential transmission of HPV to your partner during conception, using condoms can reduce the risk of transmission, although it does not eliminate it entirely. This is particularly important if you are experiencing any symptoms or have visible warts, as these can increase the likelihood of transmission.

Moreover, it is crucial to maintain regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. They may recommend follow-up tests to monitor your HPV status and ensure that any potential complications are addressed promptly. If your HPV does not clear after several months of treatment, your doctor may discuss alternative treatment options or further evaluations.

In summary, while having HPV can be concerning, it does not necessarily mean that you must delay your plans for pregnancy. With appropriate medical guidance and precautions, you can proceed with your efforts to conceive. It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for tailored advice and to ensure both your health and that of your partner are prioritized during this process.

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