by Dr. Wendy (OB/Gyn)

Question

Can I still take the Gardasil vaccine if I had HPV in the past?

Answer

Yes, Even if you have or have had HPV, it is likely that you were only exposed to one or two of the HPV types. The vaccine will not take away or protect you from the ones you already have. The vaccine will protect you against the ones you DON'T have that are included in the vaccine.

You do not need to know which types you have had previously to be vaccinated. The vaccine will not take care of prior HPV infections or dysplasias and is not a treatment for warts or dysplasia.

GARDASIL is a registered trademark of Merck & Co., Inc.

Wendy Fried, M.D., FACOG, FACS, is an OB/Gyn with Northern Obstetrics and Gynecology, PC in North Hills, New York

Disclaimer: The information provided in this document is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Only your own physician knows all the important details of your specific medical and personal history and should be the only one to give you advice regarding your own medical care. You should never disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice or treatment because of something you have read herein. If you have any questions whatsoever about your medical health or believe you have a medical problem or disease, you should contact your medical doctor or healthcare provider.