Can I Get Just Two Doses of the Cervical Cancer Vaccine?

Number of doses for the cervical cancer vaccine?

Hello Dr.
Huang,
I am considering getting the cervical cancer vaccine and found that a total of three doses are required, with each dose spaced one to three months apart.
Unfortunately, I will be going abroad for two years starting in the middle of next month.
In this situation, can I just receive two doses? Will getting the third dose two years later affect its efficacy? Thank you, doctor!

wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/03

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I recently considered getting the cervical cancer vaccine and found out that a total of three doses are required, with each dose spaced one to three months apart.
Unfortunately, I will be going abroad next month for two years, and I would like to know if I can just receive two doses in this situation.
Will getting the third dose two years later result in a loss of efficacy?
Answer: For individuals aged 9-15, receiving only two doses may be sufficient due to a better immune response.
However, since you are 24 years old, you will need to complete all three doses.
Waiting two years between doses may be too long and could result in a loss of efficacy.

Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule - United States Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) 2016:
1.
A complete HPV vaccination series consists of 3 doses.
The second dose should be administered 4-8 weeks (minimum interval of 4 weeks) after the first dose; the third dose should be administered 24 weeks after the first dose and 16 weeks after the second dose (minimum interval of 12 weeks).
2.
HPV vaccines are not recommended for use in pregnant women.
However, pregnancy testing is not needed before vaccination.
If a woman is found to be pregnant after initiating the vaccination series, no intervention is needed; the remainder of the 3-dose series should be delayed until completion or termination.

Reply Date: 2017/05/03

More Info

The cervical cancer vaccine, specifically the HPV vaccine, is designed to protect against the human papillomavirus, which is a significant cause of cervical cancer. The standard vaccination schedule for the HPV vaccine consists of three doses. The recommended intervals between the doses are as follows: the second dose should be administered 4 to 8 weeks after the first dose, and the third dose should be given 24 weeks after the first dose and at least 12 weeks after the second dose.

In your case, as you are planning to leave for two years and are concerned about the timing of the doses, it is important to understand the implications of receiving only two doses. For individuals aged 9 to 14, studies have shown that two doses of the HPV vaccine can provide adequate protection, as their immune response tends to be stronger. However, since you are 24 years old, the recommendation is to complete the three-dose series to ensure full protection.

If you were to receive only two doses and then wait two years to receive the third dose, there is a significant risk that the vaccine's efficacy could be compromised. The immune response may not be sufficient to provide long-term protection against HPV-related diseases, including cervical cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommend adhering to the complete vaccination schedule to ensure optimal immunity.

If you are unable to complete the vaccination series before leaving, it would be advisable to discuss your situation with a healthcare provider. They may be able to provide guidance on whether you can receive the third dose upon your return and what the implications might be for your immunity. It is also worth noting that if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns about HPV exposure, these should be discussed with your healthcare provider as well.

In summary, while it may be tempting to receive only two doses due to your travel plans, it is crucial to follow the recommended vaccination schedule to ensure you receive the full benefits of the HPV vaccine. Completing the three-dose series is essential for long-term protection against cervical cancer. If you have further questions or concerns, please consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your health history and circumstances.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get the Second Cervical Cancer Vaccine Dose Early?

For your first question, if you received your first dose of the vaccine today, March 27, and your second dose is originally scheduled for May 27, it is generally recommended to wait until the scheduled date for the second dose. However, some vaccines may allow for a slight adjust...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it can be done early, and the use of suppositories does not affect it. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get the Second Dose of HPV Vaccine Early?

Hello Dr. Chen, First of all, thank you for taking the time to respond to this inquiry. My question is: My wife received the first dose of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine approximately five and a half months ago. Can she receive the second dose one week earlier than scheduled? Tha...

Dr. Chen Xuhui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The quadrivalent vaccine should be administered in three doses, spaced one month apart, rather than six months apart. It is recommended to consult with a hospital to determine when to receive the third dose. If the third dose of the quadrivalent vaccine is typically given at six ...

Understanding the Effectiveness of the Cervical Cancer Vaccine: One Dose or Three?

Is the cervical cancer vaccine effective after completing all three doses, or does it provide protection after just one dose? Thank you.

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The protective effect begins after receiving one dose. Sincerely, Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Can You Have Sex After the First Dose of Cervical Cancer Vaccine?

My girlfriend has received her first dose of the vaccine and has also had a Pap smear report, which the doctor said showed no abnormalities. Can we engage in sexual activity during the period between the first and second doses of the vaccine, or should we wait until after the sec...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Yes, it is safe to engage in sexual activity during the period between the first and second doses of the vaccine.