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Understanding HPV Transmission Through Breast Milk
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that raises concerns for many expectant and new mothers, particularly regarding its potential transmission to infants. One of the key questions that often arises is whether HPV can be transmitted to babies through breast milk.
Low Risk of Transmission Through Breast Milk
Research indicates that the risk of transmitting HPV to infants via breast milk is extremely low. While there have been instances where high-risk HPV strains were detected in the breast milk of some women, the likelihood of a baby contracting HPV through breastfeeding remains minimal. Experts agree that the presence of HPV in breast milk does not pose a significant threat to infants. In fact, current findings suggest that women with HPV should not avoid breastfeeding, as the benefits of breastfeeding far outweigh the risks.
Vertical Transmission During Pregnancy and Delivery
It’s important to note that while breast milk transmission is rare, HPV can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or delivery. This vertical transmission can occur prenatally through the placenta or during vaginal delivery. However, once the baby is born, the transmission risk through breast milk is negligible. The antibodies present in breast milk can actually provide protective benefits to the infant against various infections.
Current Guidelines and Recommendations
Health professionals widely recommend that mothers with HPV continue to breastfeed. The consensus is that the advantages of breastfeeding, including nutritional benefits and immune support, significantly outweigh any potential risks associated with HPV. Moreover, studies have shown that HPV transmission through breast milk is exceedingly rare, reinforcing the safety of breastfeeding for mothers with the virus.
In summary, while HPV can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or delivery, the transmission through breast milk is highly unlikely. Mothers with HPV can feel confident in breastfeeding, knowing that it is safe for their babies and beneficial for their health.
Can I pass HPV to my baby through breastfeeding?
A high-risk HPV strain was present in two samples (2.5%) of milk, but researchers did not find HPV in the children exposed to this milk. This result suggests that a small number of females with HPV may transmit the virus into their milk, but the risk of a baby getting HPV from breast milk is extremely low.
Can a mother pass HPV to a baby?
You may pass HPV to your unborn baby during pregnancy or delivery, but it’s unlikely. Studies have differed on the rate of HPV transmission from mother to baby. In a 2016 study, researchers found that about 11 percent of newborns born to HPV-positive mothers also had the virus.
Can you pass HPV to infant?
Although the predominant mode of viral transmission occurs through sexual contact, HPV also has been found in virginal women prior to first coitus [1, 2, 4]. Studies suggest that the virus can be transmitted from mother to infant before or during childbirth [5–11].
What STDs can pass through breast milk?
If you have HIV, do not breastfeed. You can pass the virus to your baby. In countries like the United States where clean water is available, using a breastmilk substitute like formula is recommended. If you have chlamydia, gonorrhea, or HPV, you can breastfeed your baby.
