It is recommended that all individuals aged 9-45 years old receive the HPV vaccine to prevent against HPV-related diseases. However, there are certain circumstances where individuals should not receive the vaccine. These circumstances include individuals who are allergic to any component of the HPV vaccine, pregnant women, and individuals who have had an immediate allergic reaction to a previous dose of the HPV vaccine.
Pregnant women should not be vaccinated because the safety of the HPV vaccine in pregnancy has not been adequately studied. Some studies suggest that the HPV vaccine is unlikely to cause harm to a developing fetus, but more research is needed to confirm this. If a woman becomes pregnant after starting the HPV vaccine series, the remaining doses of the vaccine should be delayed until after the pregnancy.
Individuals who have had an immediate allergic reaction to a previous dose of the HPV vaccine should not receive any more doses of the vaccine. Symptoms of an immediate allergic reaction may include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and low blood pressure. These individuals should talk to their healthcare providers about other vaccine options or alternative schedules for completing the HPV vaccine series.
In some cases, individuals with weakened immune systems (such as those with HIV or those on immunosuppressive medications) may still receive the HPV vaccine, but it is important for them to discuss this with their healthcare provider who can evaluate their individual situation and make a recommendation.
While the HPV vaccine is safe and highly effective, there are certain circumstances where individuals should not receive the vaccine. Individuals who have concerns about the HPV vaccine should talk to their healthcare provider to address their concerns and determine the best course of action for their individual situation.
Can you get HPV even if both partners are clean?
Yes, it is possible to contract HPV even if both partners appear to be “clean” or free of the virus. This is because HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, including that in the genital area, not just through sexual intercourse. As a result, even people who have never had sexual intercourse can still get HPV.
Furthermore, not all cases of HPV infection have visible symptoms, so even if a person appears to be healthy, they may carry the virus. In fact, most people who get HPV do not develop any symptoms or health problems.
Additionally, it is possible for one partner to have contracted HPV before the relationship even began, and HPV can take weeks, months, or even years to develop symptoms, so a person may not even be aware that they have HPV to begin with.
It is important to prioritize regular check-ups with a healthcare provider and obtaining regular screenings for HPV and other sexually transmitted infections. The HPV vaccine is also an effective preventative measure for reducing the risk of contracting the virus. However, even with the vaccine, it is still possible to contract HPV through skin-to-skin contact. Therefore, practicing safe sex and consistently using barriers for vaginal, anal, or oral sex can help reduce the risk of transmission.
