HPV- Human Papillomavirus, a virus that affects humans, HPV infects the surface cells also called epithelial cells on the genital or oral mucous membrane and other parts of the skin such as feet, or hands. HPV is the name given to a virus that is transmitted by skin-to-skin contact and can have an impact on both men's and women's fertility. There are around 100 strains of HPV and different strains have different impacts, some are high risk and some are low.

HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, but there are other ways that people can acquire HPV. Out of 100 stains, 40 spread during intercourse, and 15 can impact the cervix which may lead to cervical cancer. According to Bradley, J. Monk, associate professor, and MD at the University of California Irvine school of medicine in the department of Gynecology believes 75% of women might contact HPV at the age of 50.  Consulting a gynecologist in Mumbai such as Dr. Rishma Pai can help you with HPV and infertility treatments.

Woman Fertility: Though HPV alone should not impact fertility in women, according to studies, HPV-positive patients are less likely to become parents. HPV can make it difficult for women to conceive due to the risk of blockage in the fallopian tube which leads to the risk of infertility. Women positive with HPV can face difficulties in pregnancy due to reduced ability of the embryo to implant in the uterus or damage to the embryo and increased miscarriage chances.

Men's fertility: HPV does not only impact women but also men. According to studies, HPV in sperm affects pregnancy outcomes by increasing the chances of miscarriage or by increasing the chances of infertility. HPV affects fertility by binding the sperm cell's head which restricts the free movement of cells.

However, having HPV in men or women doesn't mean you are infertile, or will not conceive, consulting a good doctor can help. Dr. Rishma Pai, the best laparoscopic surgeon in Mumbai can help you.

If you are pregnant and diagnosed with HPV, chances are your baby will not contract the infection and you will be able to have a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

What are the precautions you can take for HPV?
Here are several ways to reduce the chances of HPV:

● Safe sex: Intercourse is one of the main reasons for HPV infection transmission, protected sex can reduce the risk of transferring HPV from your partner.
● Vaccination: HPV vaccines are effective, make sure you get vaccinated. However, HPV vaccination is recommended for women from 9 to 26 years old and men through 21 years old. Though, now vaccines are approved for women up to 45 years old.
● Even if you are diagnosed with HPV, get vaccinated and ensure your partner gets vaccinated as well.

To wrap up: HPV can be the cause of infertility or increase the chances of infertility but doesn't mean you are infertile. However, make sure you take precautions and consult your gynecologist regularly. If you are looking for a gynecologist in Mumbai, Dr. Rishma Pai can help you. The clinic offers the best treatment for fibroids in Mumbai and more.