HPV Vaccine and Ovarian Cancer: Myths and Facts - Healthline
During an annual physical exam, your primary doctor may recommend an HPV vaccination for you or your child. This vaccine helps prevent human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, which have been
The HPV vaccine does not cause or prevent ovarian cancer.
It's important to talk with your doctor about HPV vaccinations. In this article, we review the benefits of this vaccine and how you can protect yourself from cancers caused by HPV, as well as those not caused by HPV, such as ovarian cancer.
The HPV vaccine is designed to help protect against the related viruses and cancers that may cause cervical cancer.
2020 research indicates that not only does HPV vaccination prevent the viruses that can lead to cancer, but getting your recommended vaccines is directly linked to cervical cancer prevention.
HPV infection is the most common cause of cervical cancer and may also cause:
It's possible to carry HPV asymptomatically (without having symptoms). It can spread to others through sexual contact years after you first contract the infection.
The HPV vaccine does not offer protection against ovarian cancer. The vaccine only protects against the cancers caused by HPV infection, and ovarian cancer is not one of them.
Researchers hope that a vaccine specifically designed to protect against ovarian cancer may be available at some point in the future.
Some potential ovarian cancer vaccines are currently in development, with clinical trials still underway.
Ovarian cancer itself is thought to develop in the fallopian tubes and may be
While there's no single known measure to prevent ovarian cancer, you can talk with a doctor about ways to reduce your risk. You may have a
- given birth
- breastfed or chestfed
- used birth control pills (oral contraceptives) for 5 years or longer
- undergone certain procedures, such as a hysterectomy, tubal ligation, or ovary removal
When to contact a doctor
It's also important that possible ovarian cancer is diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. Talk with a doctor if you're experiencing the following symptoms, especially if they go on for
- unusual vaginal discharge or vaginal bleeding (especially if you're postmenopausal)
- pelvic pain
- abdominal pain
- back pain
- feeling full quickly after eating
- bloating
- constipation
- frequent urination
Is the HPV vaccine safe?
Yes, the HPV vaccine is
Does the HPV vaccine cause ovarian failure?
No. The HPV vaccine does not cause ovarian failure. This myth stems from studies that included women experiencing ovarian insufficiency, but it was
Does the HPV vaccine cause autoimmune disorders?
No. Multiple studies on HPV vaccines have
Can the HPV vaccine treat HPV infections?
HPV vaccines cannot treat an active HPV infection. Like other vaccines, the goal of HPV vaccination is to prevent HPV infections and subsequent complications. This is the best preventive measure, as there's no cure available for HPV infection.
Do I still need an HPV vaccine if I get regular Pap smears?
Yes. Getting an HPV vaccine is the best way to prevent associated infections, but it doesn't protect against all of the 100-plus strains of the virus. This is why regular Pap smears are also recommended. A Pap smear is a screening procedure that looks for the presence of precancerous or cancerous cells on your cervix.
Vaccination is the best way to prevent HPV infection and possible related cancers. There are a number of myths surrounding this vaccine, and you should discuss these along with any other concerns you have with a primary care doctor or your child's pediatrician if they have one.
While the HPV vaccine may help protect against cervical cancer, it does not prevent ovarian cancer. If you're concerned about ovarian cancer, talk with a doctor about your individual risk factors and steps you can take to help prevent it.
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