Rate and predictors of human papillomavirus vaccine uptake among women who have sex with women in the United States, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2009–2012

Aims and objectives To examine rates and associated correlates of human papilloma virus vaccine uptake in women who have sex with women in the United States, and to determine whether they differ from those in women who do not have sex with women. Background Women who have sex with women are at risk for human papilloma virus infection but are less likely to receive preventive gynaecological services. Little research has been carried out to evaluate human papilloma virus vaccination rates and associated predictors of vaccination uptake in this population. Design Cross‐sectional descriptive study. Methods Data from two consecutive cohorts of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted by the United States’ Centers for Disease Control were analysed. Results The sample (N = 1105) consisted of women aged 18–26 years. There was no difference in human papilloma virus vaccine uptake between women who have sex with women and women who do not have sex with women. Overall, the vaccination rate was low (32·5%). Having health insurance and more education were significant predictors of vaccine uptake in women who have sex with women. Higher education and younger age were predictors in women who do not have sex with women. Conclusions Vaccination rates of women are far lower than the national target of 80%. The predictors of vaccine uptake were different in women who have sex with women than for women who do not have sex with women. Relevance to clinical practice Women in their 20s (regardless of their sexual orientation) should be recognised as an undervaccinated population and require targeted interventions to improve vaccination uptake.