Can Women with Endometriosis Receive the Cervical Cancer Vaccine?

Can a chocolate cyst patient receive the cervical cancer vaccine?

Hello, doctor.
I am 32 years old and have thalassemia, as does my spouse.
Two to three years ago, I underwent laparoscopic surgery for a chocolate cyst on one side.
After receiving three doses of Lupron, I attempted artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization, but all were unsuccessful.
After giving up, I naturally conceived my first child last year and recently gave birth.
Six weeks postpartum, after receiving the first dose of the cervical cancer vaccine, I returned for a check-up and found that the chocolate cyst had recurred and was tightly adhered to the back of the uterus.
I also have some postpartum urinary incontinence.
I am currently breastfeeding and occasionally perform Kegel exercises.
I would like to ask:
1.
Are the hormones from the medications for chocolate cysts and those used in artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization antagonistic to each other? Is it true that the hormones needed for assisted reproduction are not suitable for managing chocolate cysts?
2.
With the chocolate cyst having recurred and measuring 4-5 cm, should I undergo laparoscopic surgery again? If I wish to conceive a second child, will the adhesions causing the uterus and ovaries to be out of their original positions prevent the fertilized egg from finding its way back to the uterus, thus necessitating reliance on in vitro fertilization?
3.
Can individuals with chocolate cysts receive the cervical cancer vaccine? Will the vaccine have any harmful effects on the cyst? Could it cause the cyst to grow larger?
4.
If I plan not to have any more children, would you recommend directly removing the ovaries or considering other methods?
5.
During laparoscopic surgery, the most painful part is the recovery at night when the carbon dioxide gas is still in the body.
Can I request self-paid pain relief to effectively alleviate this discomfort?
Thank you for your guidance.

kelly, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/12

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the medications for endometriosis and those used in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process can have opposing effects.
Chocolate cysts can recur, measuring 4-5 cm; if there are no symptoms, observation is sufficient.
Individuals with chocolate cysts can receive the cervical cancer vaccine, as the two are unrelated.
If one plans not to conceive, observation is appropriate.
Of course, one can opt for out-of-pocket expenses for postoperative pain relief.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/05/12

More Info

Cervical cancer vaccines, such as Gardasil, are designed to protect against certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a significant cause of cervical cancer. The vaccine is most effective when administered before the onset of sexual activity, but it can still provide benefits to those who are sexually active. It is important to note that while the vaccine protects against the most common high-risk HPV types (16 and 18) and some low-risk types (6 and 11), it does not cover all HPV strains. Therefore, regular cervical screening (Pap smears) remains essential for early detection of any abnormalities.

Regarding your specific questions about endometriosis and the cervical cancer vaccine, here are some insights:
1. Hormonal Interactions: Endometriosis is often treated with hormonal therapies, such as birth control pills or GnRH agonists, which can help manage symptoms by suppressing the menstrual cycle. These treatments do not directly interfere with the effectiveness of the cervical cancer vaccine. However, it is crucial to discuss any ongoing treatments with your healthcare provider to ensure that there are no contraindications.

2. Management of Chocolate Cysts: The recurrence of chocolate cysts (endometriomas) can complicate future fertility. If the cysts are large (4-5 cm) and causing symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary. However, if you are considering future pregnancies, it is essential to weigh the risks and benefits of surgery against the potential for natural conception or assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Adhesions can indeed affect the pathway for the fertilized egg, making it more challenging for natural conception to occur.

3. Cervical Cancer Vaccine and Endometriosis: Women with endometriosis can receive the cervical cancer vaccine. There is no evidence to suggest that the vaccine would exacerbate endometriosis or cause the cysts to grow larger. The vaccine's role is to prevent HPV infection, which is unrelated to the presence of endometriosis.

4. Ovarian Removal Considerations: If you are certain that you do not wish to have more children, discussing the option of oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) with your healthcare provider may be appropriate. This decision should be made carefully, considering the implications for hormonal balance and overall health.

5. Postoperative Pain Management: After laparoscopic surgery, it is common to experience discomfort due to residual carbon dioxide gas in the abdomen. If you find the pain intolerable, you should communicate this to your healthcare team. They may be able to provide additional pain relief options, including prescription medications, to help manage your discomfort.

In summary, women with endometriosis can safely receive the cervical cancer vaccine, and it is a proactive step in preventing HPV-related diseases. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your endometriosis treatment, fertility plans, and any concerns about the vaccine. Regular follow-ups and screenings will help ensure your reproductive health is monitored effectively.

Similar Q&A

Can I Get the HPV Vaccine if I Have Uterine Fibroids?

Hello, six months ago, I visited a gynecologist due to irregular menstruation and learned that I have uterine fibroids. In this situation, is it still possible to receive the cervical cancer vaccine?

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The cervical cancer vaccines currently available are the quadrivalent Gardasil (targeting human papillomavirus types 6, 11, 16, and 18) and the bivalent Cervarix (targeting human papillomavirus types 16 and 18). Gardasil is recommended for administration to individuals age...

Is the HPV Vaccine Necessary for 44-Year-Old Women with No Sexual Experience?

Hello Dr. Zhang, I am 44 years old and have never had sexual intercourse, and I may not have it in the future. In March of this year, I was diagnosed with endometriosis after experiencing severe menstrual pain and heavy bleeding for two to three years. I have been taking medicati...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, the cervical cancer vaccine not only prevents cervical cancer but also provides protection against HPV-related cancers such as vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, penile cancer, anal cancer, and genital warts. HPV can cause lesions beyond cervical can...

Understanding Cervical Cancer Vaccine: Eligibility and HPV Infection Concerns

Hello Dr. Chen, I recently heard in the news that a cervical cancer vaccine targeting HPV types 16 and 18 is about to be released. I would like to ask under what conditions one can receive the vaccination? If someone is already infected with other types of HPV and has CIN1, can t...

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The cervical cancer prevention vaccine has reportedly begun human trials but has not yet been released. Is there still a vaccine's efficacy against different types of cervical cancer-causing HPV? I'm sorry! I do not have medical information on this topic. You will need ...

Impact of Vaccination on Endometriosis Treatment: Your Questions Answered

Hello doctor, I had surgery for a 10 cm chocolate cyst at the end of March this year. After receiving two doses of long-acting Decapeptyl, I started taking Esmya. The second dose of Decapeptyl was administered on July 10. Should I start taking Esmya on October 10? Will my menstru...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, please follow your physician's instructions. Take the medication Epinastine; everyone's response varies. Some individuals may experience slight bleeding, while others may not, and this is unrelated to vaccination. Wishing you good health.