Can You Get the HPV Vaccine During Vaginal Inflammation? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Can the cervical cancer vaccine be administered during vaginal inflammation?


Hello Doctor: On January 30, I went to the hospital for a Pap smear checkup 42 days postpartum.
A week later, I received a text message informing me that the Pap smear showed inflammation (during this time, I had discharge resembling the end of a menstrual period, and I am currently breastfeeding).
Later, I returned to the hospital for a follow-up visit, where the doctor informed me that there would be no internal examination and prescribed vaginal suppositories instead.
A week later, I still experienced yellow-green, brown, or red-streaked vaginal discharge.
I switched hospitals for a checkup, and after an internal examination, the doctor informed me of cervical erosion and vaginal inflammation.
I have undergone treatment four times without significant improvement, and I continue to experience recurrent infections and inflammation along with brown discharge.
The doctor suggested that if I am concerned, I could pay out of pocket for a triage Pap test.
The doctor has also recommended that I receive the 9-valent HPV vaccine at each visit.
I would like to ask if it is appropriate to receive the vaccine while in an inflammatory state? Is it necessary to undergo this out-of-pocket triage Pap test, or would it suffice to simply pay for an HPV test? Should I consider switching to another obstetrics and gynecology clinic for further evaluation? Thank you, Doctor.
🙏

LuLu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/13

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


1.
If there is vaginal inflammation without fever, the cervical cancer vaccine can be administered.
2.
The items included in the self-paid triage Pap smear are unknown, so no advice can be provided.
3.
Seeking a second medical opinion is advisable.

Reply Date: 2021/05/13

More Info


When considering the HPV vaccine during a period of vaginal inflammation, it is essential to understand both the implications of the inflammation and the purpose of the vaccine. The HPV vaccine is designed to prevent certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, which can lead to cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. However, if you are currently experiencing vaginal inflammation, there are several factors to consider before proceeding with vaccination.

Firstly, it is generally advisable to wait until any active infection or inflammation has resolved before receiving vaccinations. This is because the immune response to the vaccine may be compromised during an active infection, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Additionally, if you are experiencing symptoms such as abnormal discharge, pain, or bleeding, it is crucial to address these issues first. The presence of inflammation can complicate the interpretation of any subsequent tests and may also indicate an underlying condition that needs to be treated.

In your case, you mentioned experiencing recurrent infections and abnormal discharge, which suggests that further evaluation is necessary. The recommendation from your doctor to undergo a Pap smear and possibly a three-in-one test (which typically screens for HPV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea) is a prudent approach. This testing can help identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to your symptoms and guide appropriate treatment. If the three-in-one test is available and you are concerned about your health, it may be beneficial to proceed with it, as it can provide a more comprehensive understanding of your reproductive health.

If you are considering switching to another gynecologist, it may be worthwhile if you feel that your current provider is not adequately addressing your concerns or if you are not seeing improvement in your symptoms. A second opinion can provide reassurance and potentially different treatment options.

Regarding the HPV vaccine, if you are advised to receive it while experiencing inflammation, it is crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can assess your specific situation, including the severity of the inflammation and any other health factors, to determine the best course of action. If the inflammation is mild and your healthcare provider believes that the vaccine can still be administered safely, they may recommend proceeding with the vaccination. However, if there are concerns about your current health status, it may be best to wait until you have fully recovered.

In summary, while the HPV vaccine is an important preventive measure against certain cancers and diseases, it is generally recommended to wait until any active infections or inflammation have resolved before receiving it. Comprehensive testing and treatment for your current symptoms should take priority. Always consult with your healthcare provider to make informed decisions based on your health status and concerns.

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