HPV Vaccine Side Effects in Men: Joint Pain Concerns - Urology

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Concerns about side effects related to HPV vaccination in males?


Hello, doctor.
I received the first dose of the 9-valent vaccine yesterday afternoon.
Currently, I have no side effects, only mild pain at the injection site that is within tolerable limits.
However, I have seen reports of women experiencing widespread joint pain after vaccination, both domestically and internationally.
Therefore, I would like to ask if there have been any reported cases of severe widespread joint pain in men after receiving the vaccine, and if so, what is the likelihood of this occurring? I apologize if my terminology is not appropriate, as I do not have a medical background.

Mr. T, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/13

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: You can refer to the adverse reactions section, specifically Table 3 (Male), in the package insert at https://www1.ndmctsgh.edu.tw/pharm/pic/medinsert/005GAR04.pdf.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/02/13

More Info


The HPV vaccine, particularly the 9-valent version, is designed to protect against various strains of the human papillomavirus that can lead to cervical cancer, anal cancer, and other HPV-related diseases. While the vaccine is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects, including localized pain at the injection site, fever, fatigue, and occasionally, joint pain.

Regarding your specific concern about joint pain following vaccination, it is important to note that while there have been reports of joint pain in some individuals after receiving the HPV vaccine, these occurrences are relatively rare. The majority of side effects reported tend to be mild and transient. According to available data, the incidence of severe joint pain or other serious adverse effects is low in both males and females.

In the context of your question about whether men have reported severe joint pain after receiving the HPV vaccine, the evidence suggests that while some cases have been documented, they do not represent a significant proportion of the vaccinated population. The clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance have not established a direct causal relationship between the HPV vaccine and the onset of severe joint pain. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health authorities have conducted extensive reviews and found no substantial evidence linking the HPV vaccine to autoimmune diseases or severe joint pain.

The risk of experiencing joint pain or other serious side effects is generally considered to be low. For example, a review of safety data from various studies indicated that the overall incidence of serious adverse events following HPV vaccination is very low, typically less than 1% of vaccine recipients. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own within a few days.

If you are experiencing pain at the injection site, this is a common and expected reaction. It is advisable to monitor your symptoms and consult a healthcare professional if you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms, such as widespread joint pain, swelling, or other systemic reactions. They can provide a thorough evaluation and determine if further investigation or treatment is necessary.

In summary, while there have been isolated reports of joint pain following HPV vaccination, the overall risk of experiencing such side effects is low. The benefits of vaccination in preventing HPV-related diseases far outweigh the potential risks of side effects. If you have any concerns about your health or the vaccine, it is always best to discuss them with a healthcare provider who can offer personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

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