HPV Vaccination: Key Questions for Couples

HPV vaccine issues?

Hello doctor, I recently visited an HPV educational website that encourages both men and women to get the HPV vaccine, as women who have repeated infections are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
I have a few questions:
1.
I am currently 35 years old and have had sexual relationships with two girlfriends aged 18-24 and 25-26, and now I am with my third partner (my wife, who is also 35).
Given that I have had sexual intercourse during these relationships, should I recommend getting the vaccine now? If I have previously contracted a high-risk type and naturally recovered, will getting the vaccine still provide immunity against that specific type of virus?
2.
Should my wife also get vaccinated? She mentioned that she received one dose during college (when she had no sexual experience), but it may have only been the bivalent vaccine.
3.
Since most HPV viruses can be cleared by the immune system, is the reason for repeated infections due to the continuous transmission between male and female partners? (In the case of having a single sexual partner)
4.
I have a health check-up coming up; would you recommend getting an HPV antibody test (blood test)? Is there any practical significance to this? If the result is positive, does it indicate that I have recently contracted HPV, or could it also reflect an infection from several years ago?

Yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/22

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is generally recommended to get vaccinated under the age of 26.
The effectiveness of the vaccine may be reduced for those aged 35 and older.
If you decide to get vaccinated, you should start from the first dose, and blood tests are typically not required.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/02/22

More Info

Understanding HPV Vaccination: Key Questions for Couples
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a significant public health concern, particularly due to its association with various cancers, including cervical cancer. Vaccination against HPV is a critical preventive measure, and it is essential for both men and women, especially those who are sexually active. Here’s a comprehensive response to your questions regarding HPV vaccination and its implications for you and your wife.

1. Should You Get Vaccinated?
At 35 years old, you may still benefit from the HPV vaccine, although the optimal age for vaccination is typically before the onset of sexual activity, ideally between 9 and 26 years. If you have previously been infected with a high-risk type of HPV and have cleared the infection naturally, the vaccine can still provide protection against other HPV types that you have not been exposed to. The vaccine does not treat existing infections but can help prevent future infections from different strains of HPV. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider about the potential benefits of vaccination in your specific case.

2. Should Your Wife Get Vaccinated?
Your wife should also consider getting vaccinated, especially if she has only received one dose of a two-valent vaccine in the past. The current recommendations favor the nine-valent vaccine (Gardasil 9), which protects against nine types of HPV, including those most commonly associated with cervical cancer. If she has not completed the vaccination series or if her previous vaccination was limited in scope, it would be prudent for her to discuss completing the vaccination with her healthcare provider.

3. Understanding Reinfection and Transmission:
HPV is indeed a virus that many individuals can clear from their systems through their immune response. However, reinfection can occur, particularly if there is ongoing exposure to the virus from a partner who may still carry it. In a monogamous relationship, the risk of reinfection is lower, but it is still possible if one partner has been previously exposed to different strains of HPV. Regular screening and vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of transmission and the development of HPV-related diseases.

4. HPV Antibody Testing:
Routine HPV antibody testing is not commonly recommended as part of standard care. The presence of antibodies can indicate past exposure to the virus, but it does not provide information about current infections or the risk of developing HPV-related diseases. If you test positive for HPV antibodies, it could mean that you were exposed to the virus at some point, but it does not necessarily indicate a recent infection. The immune system can retain antibodies for years after the initial infection, so a positive result does not provide a clear timeline of infection.

In conclusion, both you and your wife should consider HPV vaccination as a preventive measure, even if you have had previous sexual partners. The vaccine can help protect against strains of HPV that you may not have encountered. Regular screenings, such as Pap smears for women, are also essential for early detection of any potential issues related to HPV. Discuss your concerns and vaccination options with your healthcare provider to make informed decisions tailored to your health needs.

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