Do Women Need Pre-Vaccination Checks Before HPV Shots?

Q: Do Women Need Pre-Vaccination Checks Before HPV Shots?

Hello： The National Health Bureau website has a lot of information regarding the HPV vaccine. <br>Here are some key points for reference regarding precautions during vaccination： (1) Before vaccination, individuals should inform their physician and seek evaluation if they have an

Regarding cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination for women?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my experience in March this year when I received the HPV vaccine at a gynecology clinic in Beitou, Taipei.
Upon entering, I informed the receptionist that I was there for the vaccination, and the nurse immediately took me to the injection room to administer the vaccine.
There was no consultation with a physician.
I thought this was normal, but I still asked the nurse if there were any precautions to take.
The nurse replied, "None."
Two months later, I needed to receive the second dose, but I suspected I might be pregnant.
Before the injection, I asked the nurse if it would affect the fetus or the vaccine's efficacy.
The nurse mentioned that it could have some impact.
I then requested to see a doctor, but when I asked the same question, the doctor assured me that it would not affect anything and stated that the vaccine is approved by the Department of Health and does not require a physician's consultation.
In May of this year, a colleague of mine went to another hospital for the vaccine, and the doctor recommended that she undergo a Pap smear before the vaccination.
The results showed precancerous changes, so the doctor advised her to complete treatment before getting vaccinated.
However, the clinic I visited did not conduct any such examinations.
I would like to ask a professional doctor: should any tests be done before receiving the HPV vaccine? Is it true that physicians do not need to provide any prior advisories? Thank you!

Ye Zhi Ling, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/09/21

Dr. Dong Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: The National Health Bureau website has a lot of information regarding the HPV vaccine.
Here are some key points for reference regarding precautions during vaccination: (1) Before vaccination, individuals should inform their physician and seek evaluation if they have any of the following conditions: pregnancy or planning to become pregnant, pre-existing medical conditions, history of drug or food allergies, immunocompromised status, bleeding disorders, or any physical discomfort such as fever or infection.
(2) Menstruation is not a contraindication for vaccination.
(3) Currently, it is not recommended to receive the HPV vaccine simultaneously with other vaccines.
(4) After vaccination, individuals should remain on-site for 30 minutes to monitor for any adverse reactions before leaving.
If any discomfort occurs afterward, please contact 0800-212008.
(5) If an unexpected pregnancy occurs during the vaccination period, vaccination should be halted until after delivery; termination of pregnancy is not recommended.
What else should you be aware of after receiving the HPV vaccine? Since the vaccine only prevents 60-70% of cervical cancers, it is important to continue practicing safe sex and to have regular Pap smears starting at age 30.
You can also visit the homepage of the National Health Bureau under the health topics section for cancer prevention, where there is a dedicated topic on the HPV vaccine for further information.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2012/09/21

More Info

When it comes to receiving the HPV vaccine, there are several important considerations regarding pre-vaccination checks and consultations. The HPV vaccine, which protects against the human papillomavirus, is crucial for preventing cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. However, the necessity of pre-vaccination checks can vary based on individual circumstances.

Firstly, it is generally recommended that women undergo a gynecological examination, including a Pap smear, before receiving the HPV vaccine, especially if they are sexually active. The Pap smear helps to detect any abnormal cervical cells that could indicate precancerous changes or existing HPV infections. If a woman has abnormal results from a Pap smear, it may be advisable to address those findings before proceeding with vaccination. This is particularly important because the vaccine is most effective when administered before any HPV exposure, which is more likely if there are existing infections.

In your case, it seems that the clinic you visited did not follow the standard protocol of conducting a pre-vaccination assessment. While the HPV vaccine is approved and considered safe, a thorough medical history and examination can help identify any potential concerns, such as pregnancy or existing infections. For instance, if a woman is pregnant, the vaccine is generally not recommended during pregnancy, although it is not known to cause harm. Therefore, discussing any potential pregnancy with a healthcare provider before vaccination is essential.

Moreover, the HPV vaccine is most effective when given to individuals who have not yet been exposed to the virus. If a woman has had sexual contact, even without full intercourse, there is a possibility of HPV exposure. Therefore, a healthcare provider may recommend a Pap smear or HPV testing to assess the risk before vaccination.

Regarding your colleague's experience, it is indeed prudent for healthcare providers to recommend screening tests like Pap smears before vaccination, especially if there are any indications of abnormal results. If a woman is found to have precancerous changes, it is crucial to treat those conditions before receiving the vaccine to ensure the best outcomes.

In summary, while the HPV vaccine is an important preventive measure, it is advisable for women to have a pre-vaccination check, particularly if they are sexually active. This check can include a discussion of medical history, a gynecological examination, and possibly a Pap smear. These steps help ensure that the vaccine is administered safely and effectively, maximizing its protective benefits against HPV-related diseases. If you have concerns about your vaccination process or any potential risks, it is always best to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

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