2. c. Harm to the Fetus
Fetal health was the main concern about pregnancy raised by most women
interviewed. Participants also reported that they often found it
challenging to find adequate information about this issue. They needed
to know what to do to protect their child from the infection. In this
regard, one of the participants planning to get pregnant soon stated:
”I worry about passing HPV to the baby during pregnancy and
childbirth. What would I do to stop that?” (P.4)
Since anogenital warts can proliferate during pregnancy, removal of
warts during pregnancy was another issue that was raised. Women with GWs
revealed information needs surrounding the teratogenicity of some
wart-removing treatments. They felt anxious about any threats that might
pose to the fetus.
”Doctor gave me Podophyllin, saying I shouldn’t get pregnant while
using it. I’m afraid I’m pregnant. I want to know which wart-removing
medicine is safe in pregnancy.” (P.4)
They also wanted to know if intercourse during pregnancy would increase
the chance of HPV transmission to the fetus.
Almost all women interviewed reported being advised to take the HPV
vaccine. Participants knew little about the safety of the HPV vaccine
(mostly Gardasil) in pregnancy. Women who wanted to get pregnant
preferred not to become pregnant until they completed the vaccine
series.
”I asked about vaccination and pregnancy. Doctor recommended
postponing vaccination until after pregnancy. But I’d rather to get
vaccinated first.” (P.2)