For married women, is it better to get the bivalent or quadrivalent vaccine?

Sep 11, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, married women should make a comprehensive decision on whether to receive the bivalent or quadrivalent HPV vaccine based on their age and individual needs. Before vaccination, it is recommended that married women undergo an HPV test to determine whether they are already infected with the HPV virus. If an infection is detected, vaccination is temporarily not recommended.

Generally, married women should make a decision between the bivalent and quadrivalent HPV vaccines based on their age and individual needs. The specific analysis is as follows:

The bivalent HPV vaccine primarily targets two high-risk HPV types—HPV16 and HPV18—which are the most common causes of cervical cancer. The quadrivalent HPV vaccine covers these same two high-risk types (HPV16 and HPV18), but also includes protection against two low-risk types, HPV6 and HPV11, which are mainly responsible for benign conditions such as genital warts. The bivalent vaccine is typically recommended for individuals aged 9 to 45 years, while the quadrivalent vaccine is generally suitable for those aged 20 to 45 years.

For married women within the eligible age range for both vaccines, if economically feasible, the quadrivalent HPV vaccine may be a preferable option due to its broader coverage of HPV subtypes. However, if the quadrivalent vaccine is unavailable or too costly, the bivalent HPV vaccine remains an effective alternative, as it covers the most common HPV types associated with cervical cancer.

Prior to vaccination, married women are advised to undergo HPV testing to determine whether they are already infected with the virus. If an infection is detected, vaccination is not recommended at that time. Regardless of which vaccine is chosen, regular gynecological examinations and HPV screenings should continue after vaccination to help prevent cervical cancer.

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