HPV Vaccine | Pap test

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Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccine

Q. When is the best time to be vaccinated against HPV?Q. I am already sexually active (and have had several lifetime partners) is it too late to be vaccinated?Q. I have already had an abnormal Pap test,is it too late to be vaccinated?Q. Is it possible to get HPV from the vaccine?Q. Do I need a Pap test or an HPV test before I get vaccinated to make sure that I am not already infected?Q. I am pregnant or nursing. Can I be vaccinated? Is the vaccine harmful to my baby?Q. Are there any adverse effects to the vaccine?Q. Are there any contraindications to vaccination?Q. I have been vaccinated. Do I still need Pap tests?Q. I am older than 27 years, can I still be vaccinated?

I have been vaccinated. Do I still need Pap tests?

Both vaccines protect against HPV 16 and 18 that cause 70% of all cases of cervical cancer. However, that still leaves 30% of cervical cancer caused by HPV that is not prevented by the vaccine. Also, someone who was vaccinated after the already became sexually active may have been infected by HPV 16 or 18 before they were vaccinated. These women will not have protection against that HPV type. Therefore, although vaccination offers significant protection against developing cervical cancer and precancer, these women still need routine Pap test (and HPV test) screening.