I'm sorry to hear you're dealing with a high-risk HPV infection despite receiving the Gardasil vaccine in the past. As an STD assistant, I can provide some general information that may help explain why the vaccine didn't fully protect you, but I'd recommend consulting your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

The Gardasil vaccine protects against 9 types of HPV that cause around 90% of cervical cancers and genital warts. However, it doesn't cover all high-risk HPV strains. It's possible you were exposed to one of the high-risk HPV types not included in the vaccine.

Additionally, the vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to HPV through sexual contact. If you had been exposed prior to vaccination, it may not have been able to provide full protection.

It's also important to understand that no vaccine is 100% effective for everyone. Individual immune responses can vary.

I understand this may be concerning, but please don't lose hope. Most high-risk HPV infections clear on their own within 1-2 years. Your doctor can monitor your condition and provide guidance on next steps, like more frequent screening.

Please feel free to ask any other questions. I'm here to provide caring support and accurate STD information to help you understand your situation better. Don't hesitate to seek professional medical advice as well.