What tests should be done before receiving the cervical cancer vaccine?
Disease description:
I notice everyone seems to advocate getting the cervical cancer vaccine. My husband accompanied me to the hospital for it, but I'm a bit worried because this isn't my first time. I'd like to ask, what tests should be done before receiving the cervical cancer vaccine?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
It is necessary and important to undergo cervical HPV testing before receiving the cervical cancer vaccine. If the test results show a positive HPV infection, especially with high-risk types HPV16 and HPV18, receiving the bivalent vaccine may no longer be appropriate, as the bivalent vaccine primarily prevents infection from these two types. When already infected with these types, vaccination against the same subtypes would no longer provide preventive benefits. In such cases, women may consider receiving the nonavalent vaccine, which offers protection against a broader range of HPV types, thereby providing more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, women may choose to delay vaccination but should undergo regular cervical screening to monitor their health status. The cervical cancer vaccine effectively prevents most cervical precancerous lesions and cervical cancer. Therefore, all women are encouraged to actively consider vaccination to safeguard their health.
