HPV (human papillomavirus) is a prevalent STD that can lead to certain health issues, including genital warts and different types of cancer. However, vaccine protection against the most common strains of HPV that lead to diseases is available, meaning you can take steps to prevent HPV infection.
What is the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine protects against some HPV strains that result in cancer or genital warts. The available vaccines can protect against the following.
- Type 16 and 18 HPV strains- these two strains account for 80% of cervical cancer
- Type 6 and 11 HPV strains – these HPV strains account for 90% of cervical cancer cases
- Five types of HPV, including type 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58, that cause anal, vulvar/vaginal, throat, cervical, and penile cancer
Series of HPV vaccines are available. From 15 to 45 years, three separate doses of the HPV vaccine are necessary. The second dose of the vaccine will be two months after the first, while the third dose is six months after the second one. This means getting the three doses of the vaccine will take eight months.
Children between 9 and 14 years only need two doses of the vaccine, with the second dose administered six months after the first HPV vaccine dose.
Who should take the HPV vaccine?
Anyone between ages 9 and 45 can take the HPV vaccine to protect them from genital warts and different HPV strains that cause cancer. However, the recommended age for getting the HPV vaccine is 11 or 12 to ensure complete protection before the person is sexually active.
If you want to get the vaccine and are above the recommended age, consult your doctor to know if you can still get the vaccine.
How effective is HPV vaccination?
The HPV vaccine is effective. Studies have shown that the HPV vaccine works well in preventing high-risk strains of HPV, including those that may cause cancer. Getting the recommended doses of the HPV vaccine before sex can reduce your chances of getting genital warts and HPV-related cancers by about 99%.
The HPV vaccine is more effective if you get it before engaging in sexual activities. This is the reason for recommending HPV vaccination at 11 or 12 years. However, you can still get the HPV vaccine even if you’ve had sex. The vaccine protects against many strains, and even if you have gotten a strain of HPV, the vaccine can protect you from other HPV strains you haven’t contracted.
How long does the HPV vaccine protect for?
Studies on the HPV vaccine show that the vaccine offers long-lasting protection against the virus. Researchers will know more about the vaccination with time, but for now, the vaccine protects for many years.
Since the introduction of HPV vaccination, the rates of cervical precancers and genital warts have reduced.
Does the HPV vaccine have side effects?
Studies report that the HPV vaccine is safe, but the most common side effects are redness and temporary pain at the injection. The HPV vaccine is controversial because it prevents a sexually transmitted infection, leading people to believe that it is inappropriate for children.
However, the vaccine works best if administered long before the person engages in sex. This makes it a good idea to get the vaccine when young, and there will be no need to worry about certain types of cancer in later stages of life.
Studies have reported that the vaccine doesn’t make people engage in more sexual activity or cause people to have sex at a younger age. Giving children the HPV vaccine doesn’t encourage them to have sex but protects them from HPV infection, leading to serious illnesses during adulthood.
Can the vaccine treat HPV infection if I am already infected with HPV?
No, it cannot. If you have an HPV infection, the vaccine cannot treat it but protects you from getting other HPV strains. If you have HPV, ensure you consult your doctor to know if you need tests or treatments.
Do I still need an HPV/Pap test if I have taken the vaccine?
Yes, you do. A Pap test is necessary and helps to diagnose cervical cancer. A Pap test can help identify cervical cell changes that lead to cancer. The HPV vaccine doesn’t protect against all HPV types that cause cancer.
Where is the HPV vaccine available?
The HPV vaccine is available at different clinics, health departments, and doctors’ offices.
How much is the HPV vaccine?
Each dose of the HPV vaccine is about £190, but many health insurance providers cover the cost of HPV vaccination. Some programs that help certain people without insurance get the HPV vaccine at low or no cost is also available.
For a private HPV vaccine in UK, visit Medical Express Clinic today or call 020 7499 1991 for an appointment to get vaccinated.
Frequently asked questions on HPV vaccines
Is the HPV vaccine available for men?
Yes, it is. Boys and men can get the HPV vaccine that protects against cervical cancer and genital warts. This vaccination is important to reduce the transmission of HPV infection.
Can the HPV vaccine cause infertility or affect your menstrual cycle?
No, it doesn’t. The HPV vaccine does not lead to infertility or affect your menstrual cycle. If you are pregnant and need the vaccine, you have to wait until after pregnancy.
Like other medications and vaccines, the HPV vaccine has a small risk of severe allergic reactions for certain people. You can consult your nurse or doctor about possible side effects and risks before taking the HPV vaccine.
