The impact of human papillomavirus on the reproductive function of men and women (literature review)
https://doi.org/10.22625/2072-6732-2026-18-2-30-41
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted pathogens. In recent years, it has been considered not only as a cause of cancer and non-cancerous growths, but also as a factor in reproductive dysfunction. In women, the virus alters the composition of the vaginal microbiota, reduces the functional activity of granulosa cells, egg maturation, and the ability of the uterine mucosa to implant and form the placenta. It also affects embryonic development and increases the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and premature birth.
In men, HPV alters sperm motility and morphological characteristics, and contributes to damage to genetic material, which is considered a cause of male infertility. When HPV is introduced into the sperm, it is transferred to the egg, disrupting early embryonic development.
The negative impact of HPV on the effectiveness of assisted reproductive technologies is also being studied. Infected men and women experience a reduced number of highquality embryos and the likelihood of pregnancy, as well as an increased incidence of early reproductive losses. Studying the role of HPV as a factor in subfertility, given its high prevalence, may provide additional support for widespread, gender-neutral vaccination against this infection.
About the Authors
S. M. Kharit
Federal Scientific and Clinical Center for Infectious Diseases; Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University
Russian Federation
Competing Interests:
Russian Federation
Saint-Petersburg
Competing Interests:
none
A. Zh. Bishmanova
Kazakh National Medical University named after S. D. Asfendiyarov
Kazakhstan
Competing Interests:
Kazakhstan
Almaty
Competing Interests:
none
K. K. Tikhomirova
Federal Scientific and Clinical Center for Infectious Diseases; Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University
Russian Federation
Competing Interests:
Russian Federation
Saint-Petersburg
Competing Interests:
none
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Review
For citations:
Kharit S.M., Bishmanova A.Zh., Tikhomirova K.K. The impact of human papillomavirus on the reproductive function of men and women (literature review). Journal Infectology. 2026;18(2):30-41. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.22625/2072-6732-2026-18-2-30-41
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