HPV Vaccination: Information for Women

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is recommended for females in the following age groups:

• Routine Vaccination: Females aged 11–12 years, though vaccination can begin as early as 9 years.

• Catch-Up Vaccination: Females aged 13–26 years who have not yet received or fully completed the HPV vaccine series.

• Adults (Ages 27–45): Women aged 27–45 years should consult their healthcare provider to determine individual benefits of vaccination.

Recommended Vaccination Schedule

• Ages 9–14: Two-dose schedule, with the second dose administered 6–12 months after the first.

• Ages 15–45: Three-dose schedule, with the second dose given 1–2 months after the first and the third dose 6 months after the initial dose.

Eligibility for Revaccination

Revaccination (receiving the vaccine again) may be appropriate for:

• Individuals who initially received the HPV vaccine at incorrect intervals or significantly outside the recommended timeframe.

• Women who began vaccination during pregnancy should be revaccinated postpartum if the original vaccination schedule was interrupted or incomplete.

• Females with an incomplete vaccination series who test positive for HPV on their pap smear. Completion or revaccination may be beneficial, though it will not clear existing HPV infections or cure associated conditions.

Important Considerations

• Immunocompromised Individuals: Females with compromised immune systems due to illness or medications should follow the three-dose HPV vaccination schedule, regardless of age.

• HPV-Positive Individuals: Women testing positive for HPV should continue routine cervical cancer screening as advised by their healthcare provider, as the HPV vaccine does not treat or cure existing HPV infections.

Benefits of HPV Vaccination

HPV vaccination significantly reduces the risk of:

• Cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

• Genital warts.

• Future HPV infections.

For personalized advice or additional information regarding HPV vaccination or revaccination, please contact our office to schedule an appointment with Complete Healthcare for Women.

Contact Information:

Complete Healthcare for Women
Tel: 509-392-6700
Richard Lorenzo, D.O. | Kortney Jones, ARNP

Author

Richard Lorenzo, DO Dr. Lorenzo is a Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOOG), reflecting his expertise in women’s health. He provides comprehensive gynecological and obstetric services, including prenatal care up to 20 weeks, infertility evaluations, and general gynecology. Dr. Lorenzo specializes in advanced surgical techniques, offering minimally invasive procedures for abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis, and hysterectomy, ensuring quicker recovery and minimal discomfort for his patients. He is highly trained in high-risk obstetrics and adept at performing minimally invasive hysterectomies, providing women with effective solutions tailored to their needs. At Complete Healthcare for Women in Richland, WA, Dr. Lorenzo prioritizes personalized, compassionate care, empowering women to make informed health decisions.