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)