Should You Get the Cervical Cancer Vaccine If Pregnant?

Issues Regarding the Administration of the Cervical Cancer Vaccine

Hello, doctor.
I received the Gardasil quadrivalent vaccine four months after my first pregnancy.
I need to get the third dose soon.
If I have signs of a suspected pregnancy, should I still receive the vaccine? If I cannot receive it, will I need to restart the vaccination series after the pregnancy ends, or can I just receive the third dose?

Wang's, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/12

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, regarding the cervical cancer vaccine, the third dose should be administered soon.
If there are signs of suspected pregnancy, it is generally recommended not to receive the vaccine and to wait until it is confirmed that there is no pregnancy before vaccination.
If vaccination cannot be administered and the pregnancy ends, the time for receiving the third dose may have passed, and theoretically, it should be re-administered.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2015/08/12

More Info

When it comes to the cervical cancer vaccine, particularly the Gardasil vaccine, there are several important considerations regarding its administration during pregnancy. The Gardasil vaccine is designed to protect against certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which are known to cause cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. The vaccine is most effective when administered before the onset of sexual activity, and it is typically recommended for individuals aged 9 to 26, although some guidelines suggest it can be given up to age 45.

Regarding your specific question about receiving the cervical cancer vaccine while pregnant, the general medical consensus is that it is not recommended to administer the vaccine during pregnancy. If there are signs or symptoms suggesting that you might be pregnant, it is advisable to postpone the vaccination until after the pregnancy has concluded. This precaution is primarily due to the lack of comprehensive studies on the effects of the vaccine on pregnant individuals and their fetuses, although there is no evidence to suggest that the vaccine poses a significant risk.

If you have already started the vaccination series and suspect you might be pregnant before receiving the third dose, it is best to wait until after your pregnancy to complete the series. Once you have given birth, you can then discuss with your healthcare provider whether you need to restart the vaccination series or if you can simply receive the third dose to complete it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals who are pregnant should not receive the HPV vaccine, and if they become pregnant after starting the series, they should not receive any further doses until after the pregnancy.

In terms of the vaccine's effectiveness, it is important to note that while the Gardasil vaccine provides protection against specific HPV types, it does not cover all HPV strains. Therefore, even after vaccination, regular cervical cancer screenings (Pap smears) are essential for early detection of any abnormalities, especially if you have a history of HPV infection or cervical dysplasia.

Additionally, if you have been diagnosed with conditions such as CIN1 or CIN2, it is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations regarding monitoring and potential treatment. The presence of these conditions may influence your healthcare provider's advice on vaccination and any necessary follow-up procedures.

In summary, if you suspect you are pregnant, it is advisable to postpone the cervical cancer vaccine until after your pregnancy. After giving birth, consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action regarding the completion of your vaccination series. Regular screenings and follow-up care are vital for maintaining cervical health, especially if you have a history of HPV or cervical abnormalities.

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