Can You Get the New 9-Valent HPV Vaccine After Previous Doses?

If the cervical cancer vaccine has already been administered, is it possible to receive a booster shot?

Hello Dr.
Tsao, I would like to ask about the cervical cancer vaccine that I received at my own expense at a gynecology clinic in Taiwan 14-15 years ago when it was first introduced.
I completed the vaccination before the age of 25, but I do not remember which type of vaccine I received at that time.
I recently learned that a nine-valent vaccine is now available, and I am wondering if I can receive the nine-valent vaccine as a booster since I have already been vaccinated.
If I can receive the booster, will it be an out-of-pocket expense, as I understand that health insurance may not cover it? Thank you for your assistance.

Yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/03

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, please note that health insurance does not cover this.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/10/03

More Info

The question of whether you can receive the new 9-valent HPV vaccine after having previously received doses of another HPV vaccine is an important one, especially as awareness of HPV and its associated risks continues to grow. The 9-valent HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) provides protection against nine strains of the human papillomavirus, including those that cause the majority of cervical cancers and genital warts.
If you received the HPV vaccine 14-15 years ago, it is likely that you received either the bivalent or quadrivalent vaccine, which protect against fewer strains of HPV. The bivalent vaccine protects against HPV types 16 and 18, while the quadrivalent vaccine protects against types 6, 11, 16, and 18. The 9-valent vaccine, on the other hand, covers these four types plus five additional types (31, 33, 45, 52, and 58), which are also associated with cervical cancer.

According to current medical guidelines, individuals who have previously received any HPV vaccine can still benefit from the 9-valent vaccine. If you have completed a series of the bivalent or quadrivalent vaccines, it is generally recommended to receive the 9-valent vaccine to enhance your protection against the additional HPV types it covers. However, it is important to note that you would need to start a new vaccination series with the 9-valent vaccine, which typically consists of three doses.
Regarding the cost, the 9-valent HPV vaccine is often not covered by health insurance, especially if it is administered outside of the recommended age range or if it is considered a catch-up vaccination. In many cases, individuals may need to pay out-of-pocket for the vaccine. It is advisable to check with your healthcare provider or local health department for specific information about costs and insurance coverage in your area.

In summary, if you have previously received an HPV vaccine, you can still receive the 9-valent HPV vaccine to provide broader protection against HPV-related diseases. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your vaccination history, the potential benefits of receiving the 9-valent vaccine, and any associated costs. Additionally, staying informed about HPV and its risks can empower you to make the best decisions for your health.
Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that the HPV vaccination is most effective when given before the onset of sexual activity, but it can still provide benefits for those who are already sexually active. The vaccine is recommended for individuals up to age 26, and in some cases, it may be given to individuals up to age 45, depending on individual risk factors and health history. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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