Should I Get the Third HPV Vaccine Dose If I'm Trying to Conceive? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Inquire about the HPV vaccine?


Hello Doctor: I have received the HPV vaccine, and I have already received the first and second doses.
I can get the third dose this month! Since I plan to become pregnant and am not using contraception, should I still get the third dose?

Jiang Jiang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/10

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


The following are the basic principles: 1.
The quadrivalent HPV vaccine has a pregnancy category of B, indicating it is within a safe range.
If a woman accidentally becomes pregnant during the vaccination period, there is no need to terminate the pregnancy.
2.
However, to minimize risks, it is not recommended for pregnant women to receive the quadrivalent HPV vaccine.
3.
If pregnancy occurs after the first dose has been administered, subsequent doses should be postponed until after delivery.
It is advised to choose one of the two options: if prioritizing pregnancy, do not receive the vaccine until menstruation occurs and pregnancy is ruled out; if menstruation is absent and pregnancy is confirmed, wait until after delivery to receive the vaccine.
If prioritizing vaccination, temporarily avoid pregnancy for one month, and then attempt to conceive one month after receiving the vaccine.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/07/10

More Info


When considering whether to receive the third dose of the HPV vaccine while trying to conceive, it is essential to weigh the benefits of vaccination against the potential risks associated with pregnancy. The HPV vaccine is designed to protect against certain strains of the human papillomavirus, which can lead to cervical cancer and other related diseases. The vaccine is most effective when the complete series is administered, which typically consists of three doses.

According to the guidelines, the HPV vaccine is classified as a Category B medication during pregnancy, meaning that there is no evidence of risk to the fetus based on animal studies, but there are limited human studies. If a woman becomes pregnant after starting the vaccination series, it is generally advised to delay any remaining doses until after the pregnancy is completed. Therefore, if you are actively trying to conceive and have not yet confirmed pregnancy, you may want to consider the following options:
1. Prioritize Vaccination: If you choose to receive the third dose now, it is safe to do so, as the vaccine does not pose a risk to an unborn child if administered before pregnancy. However, if you do become pregnant shortly after vaccination, there is no need to terminate the pregnancy due to the vaccine.

2. Delay Vaccination: If you are prioritizing pregnancy and are concerned about any potential risks, you might opt to wait until after you have confirmed pregnancy before receiving the third dose. This approach allows you to focus on conception without the added concern of vaccination.

3. Timing Considerations: If you decide to receive the third dose now, it is advisable to wait at least one month after vaccination before trying to conceive. This waiting period allows your body to build an immune response to the vaccine, which is crucial for its effectiveness.

4. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Ultimately, the best course of action is to discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history, current health status, and family planning goals.

In summary, while it is safe to receive the third dose of the HPV vaccine while trying to conceive, it is also acceptable to delay the vaccination until after pregnancy is confirmed. The key is to ensure that you complete the vaccination series for optimal protection against HPV-related diseases. If you have any concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your individual circumstances.

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