Health for All says
In recent years, with the emancipation and openness of sexual concepts, people have paid more and more attention to sexual health. Among them, HPV (human papillomavirus) infection has become a topic of great concern. HPV is a common sexually transmitted virus that is thought to be the main culprit in cervical cancer and other reproductive tract diseases. So, is it still necessary to get the HPV vaccine after having sex?As an experienced veteran Chinese medicine practitioner, I will combine the theory of Chinese medicine with modern science to give you detailed answers.
First, we need to understand how the HPV vaccine works and how it works. Currently, there are two main HPV vaccines on the market, which are bivalent and quadrivalent. They mainly prevent HPV infection and related diseases by stimulating the body's immune system to produce antibodies to block the invasion of HPV viruses into the body. Compared with traditional Chinese medicine**, vaccines can directly improve the body's immunity and reduce the risk of infection at the source.
Secondly, let's take a look at the perspective of Chinese medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that physiological balance within the human body is the foundation of health, and viral infections are a manifestation of an imbalance within the human body. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) works by adjusting the balance of the body's internal organs, qi and blood, yin and yang, etc., including some famous prescriptions. For example, "Yinqiaosan" can clear heat and detoxify, and inhibit virus replication;"Xiaoyao Pill" can invigorate blood circulation and eliminate blood stasis, improve blood circulation in the genital tract, and enhance the body's resistance. These prescriptions are widely used in TCM clinics, but their effectiveness in preventing HPV infection may be limited.
Next, let's answer the question in the title. The doctor has given 6 truths, let's take a look:
The first truth is that wearing a condom and maintaining hygiene during sex can also prevent HPV infection. Indeed, proper use of condoms can reduce the risk of infection, while maintaining personal hygiene is also very important. However, the route of transmission of HPV also includes contact, not only. Therefore, avoiding sex alone does not completely eliminate the risk of infection.
The second truth is that vaccines do not completely prevent HPV infection. This statement is true, vaccines do not protect against all HPV types. The vaccines currently on the market can only protect against some types of HPV, but they have been able to cover the high-risk types of cervical cancer.
The third truth is: vaccination is best done before sex begins. What this means is that it's better to get vaccinated before you've been exposed to the HPV virus. The vaccine is given after the start of sexual activity, and the effect may be less obvious for people who have already been infected.
The fourth truth is: vaccines are more effective in preventing cervical cancer. The meaning of this sentence is that there is a strong link between HPV infection and cervical cancer. Preventing HPV infection can reduce the risk of cervical cancer, especially for young women who are not yet infected with HPV, and vaccines are a very effective means.
The fifth truth is that HPV infection does not necessarily cause cervical cancer. It is indeed true that most HPV infections do not lead to cervical cancer. However, it should be noted that even if the infection does not cause cervical cancer, it may lead to other genital tract diseases, such as warts.
The last word of truth is: everyone's situation is different, and it is best to consult a medical professional. This sentence is a summary, whether it is vaccination or other ** methods, it needs to be evaluated and selected according to individual differences, and it is very important to consult a professional doctor.
In summary, although the effect of HPV vaccination after sexual activity is not as obvious as that of vaccination before starting sexual life, the vaccine is still one of the effective means to prevent HPV infection and cervical cancer. In addition, although there are some well-known prescriptions that can be used to maintain reproductive tract health, they have limited effectiveness in preventing HPV infection. Therefore, if there is a condition and need, it is still recommended to consult a professional doctor for vaccination. Maintaining good sexual Xi, personal hygiene and regular check-ups are also important preventive measures.
Health References:
1. gao l, wang h, zhang l, et al. prevalence of oral human papillom**irus infection and associated risk factors among heterosexual men in xi'an, china. int j infect dis. 2020 dec;101:68-74.