HPV Infection

I received the results of my pap and the doctor said i have HPV. I have received paps routinely for about 7 years and have always had normal results. I have been in a monogamous relationship for 3 years. I received the HPV vaccine 1 year ago.

Is it possible that I may have contracted HPV as a result of the vaccination?

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
No, the vaccine will give you antibodies against HPV, but does not actually contain any virus. Therefore your pap will not become positive as a result of the vaccine.

It is extremely common for HPV to come and go on pap smears.  Do you know if your doctor did an HPV DNA test this time? It may be that this is the first time that was done, and that could explain why you haven't registered positive before.

It is also possible that the HPV has been there for years and just now showed up.  

It is also possible that you were just exposed to HPV for the first time--but before you purchase and firearms for use on your partner, I have to say that this is UNLIKELY given the fact that you have had the vaccine.

It is unlikely that you will be able to figure out when you were actually infected, but it is VERY important to follow up with your doctor--as long as the changes on the pap are mild, there is no need for any major procedures on your cervix.  The majority of cases will spontaneously heal with no treatment, but you MUST be good about surveillance, because up to 10% of cases could go on to become cancer if ignored.

Hope this helps!

Dr B