Human Papillomavirus Vaccination and Declining Birth Rates
Data representing 8 million 25 to 29 year old women in the U.S. show an association between lower pregnancy rates in women who had the HPV vaccine compared to women who did not receive the shot. The study’s author stressed that the study did not prove causation, because other studies have indicated that environmental pollutants, endocrine disruptors, and pesticides can also decrease fertility, and may be contributors to declining birth rates. However, four other countries with strong HPV vaccine programs have also experienced clear declines in birth rates among younger women. Romania, which has very low rates of HPV vaccination, showed a substantial increase in birth rates in all but the youngest age groups. There are also multiple reports of premature ovarian failure in young women who received one brand of HPV vaccine. The American College of Pediatricians voiced concern that the vaccine might affect ovarian function in some young women.