Would you ask for a c-section?

RedRose87

1 in 400 children born to a mother with HPV 6 or 11 (strains that causes genital warts - NOT herpes) will be infected with RRP (warts in the throat) requiring surgery for removal as little as 4 a year to as often as every 2 weeks. Having an active outbreak at the time of a vaginal birth increases this risk by 200%. It is indicated that transmission is greatly increased if this is the first outbreak as well as the mother's first born child. However, having a c-section has not be proven to completely eliminate the risk, only decrease it, as the HPV virus can be found in the amniotic fluid even without an active outbreak. Most obgyn's will not perform c-sections based on the presence of genital warts caused by HPV alone, due to the fact that there is not enough evidence to suggest enough of a decreased risk of transmission. All of this information I have found in established medical journals and studies.

As I do currently have an active outbreak (my first, didn't know I had it till I got pregnant), and this is also my first born, statistically my odds are increased by 200%. As it stands they consider 1 in 400 to be "rare", however to me that sounds like 1 too many children who are affected. I am trying to decide if I should push for a c-section, despite the fact that my son could STILL be born with this virus. It's horribly upsetting that there is nothing I can do to eliminate the risk entirely, and I feel absolutely awful. I've only been with one other person consensually besides my husband, so it isn't like I slept around, and I still got HPV. It's depressing to find out during a time that should be so happy, and I am so sick with worry for my son.

Would you opt to a c-section if given the choice? I had planned on a vaginal birth with no pain meds, but I am willing to do anything to reduce his risk. No one else seems to think that a c-section is worth it though.

ExpatPumpkin

I'm so sorry to hear what you're going through - it sounds like you're beating yourself up A LOT and you really shouldn't be.  I just read on the CDC that HPV is so common that about 50% of women get/have it.  This doesn't make you dirty or irresponsible.  

If you want to have a c-section because that will allow you to worry less and enjoy your pregnancy, then by all means request it.  This is no time for unnecessary stress.

And please remember, if we're basing our concerns on statistics, they are OVERWHELMINGLY in your favor for having a HEALTHY baby no matter what you decide.

nosoup4u

When are you due? How long does an outbreak last? What does your doctor say? If having a c/s doesn't lessen the risk that much, I'd still opt for vaginal birth. And an elective c/s isn't risk-free, either.

Like the PP siad, HPV is incredibly common. I know a lot of women who have/had it, don't beat yourself up about it.

kellyjojo

Absolutely!!  I had an elective c-section with my son and will do the same with this baby.  My body, my choice, great experience.  Do not let anyone make you feel like this is a bad decision.  People seem to focus too much on the delivery of your child rather than the care from that day forward.  That is what matters.  Take care of yourself while pregnant, take care of your child when they arrive.  Having a vaginal birth will not make someone a better mother.  Do what you feel most comfortable doing. 

kcisthebombdotcom

ExpatPumpkin:

I'm so sorry to hear what you're going through - it sounds like you're beating yourself up A LOT and you really shouldn't be.  I just read on the CDC that HPV is so common that about 50% of women get/have it.  This doesn't make you dirty or irresponsible.  

If you want to have a c-section because that will allow you to worry less and enjoy your pregnancy, then by all means request it.  This is no time for unnecessary stress.

And please remember, if we're basing our concerns on statistics, they are OVERWHELMINGLY in your favor for having a HEALTHY baby no matter what you decide.

This.

pepomntpat

I would not. There are also many risks associated with a c/s.  Make sure to weigh those in when making your decision. There is a reason doctors don't do them just because of an HPV outbreak. The risks do not outweigh the benefits. 

bridein08

pepomntpat:

I would not. There are also many risks associated with a c/s.  Make sure to weigh those in when making your decision. There is a reason doctors don't do them just because of an HPV outbreak. The risks do not outweigh the benefits. 

 

Actually, many doctors DO perform C/S because of an active HPV outbreak.  It is most definitely an indication for a cesarean delivery. 

OP, I would certainly be getting a cesarean in this situation, if there is still an active outbreak. Call your doc's office and talk to a triage nurse about this- it should help ease your mind a bit.