Are you a mother wondering if you should give your daughter or son the HPV vaccine? Or are you a little scared or hesitant because you don't know much about this vaccine? This vaccine is the best and safest way to protect yourself from the HPV virus, which causes cervical cancer, other dangerous cancers, and genital warts. So, let's find answers to all your questions about it today.
Let's first see, what is HPV?
Simply put, HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus. It is a very common sexually transmitted infection (STI) . It is mainly spread through skin-to-skin contact during sex. There are more than 40 types of HPV. It is so common that about 80% of sexually active people will develop this infection at some point in their lives. But most of the time, our body's healthy immune system can fight off the virus and clear it.
But some HPV infections don't go away so easily. They can persist in the body and eventually turn into cancer . For example, HPV is the main cause of most cervical and genital cancers. It is also the virus that causes genital warts.
That's why getting the HPV vaccine is so important. It's a very safe and effective way to prevent infection if you're ever exposed to the virus.
What protection does the HPV vaccine provide?
The HPV vaccine prevents HPV infections that can lead to cancer or genital warts. It's important to remember this: The vaccine is a preventative measure, not a cure. This means that if you've already been infected with a certain type of HPV, the vaccine cannot cure that infection.
However, the vaccine can protect against other HPV types that you have not been exposed to before. These include both high-risk and low-risk types that cause cancer.
The HPV vaccine prevents the following conditions:
- Cervical cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Vulvar cancer
- Penile cancer
- Anal cancer
- Oropharyngeal cancer
- Genital warts
Types of vaccines used in Sri Lanka and the world
There are several types of HPV vaccines. Not all of them provide the same level of protection. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Name of the vaccine | HPV strains that provide protection | Preventable Disease Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Gardasil-9 | HPV-16, 18 (high-risk for cancer) HPV-31, 33, 45, 52, 58 (additional risk for cancer) HPV-6, 11 (for genital warts) | It is the most widely available vaccine, preventing 90% of cervical cancer and 90% of genital warts. |
| Gardasil | HPV-16, 18 HPV-6, 11 | Prevents cervical cancer by 70% and genital warts by 90%. |
| Cervarix | HPV-16, 18 | It only protects against high-risk types of cancer. It does not prevent genital warts. |
Currently, only the Gardasil-9 vaccine is used in countries like the United States. It provides the most protection. This vaccine is available under the Sri Lankan government vaccination program and from the private sector.
Who should get this vaccine?
It is best for everyone, both men and women, to get the vaccine before they become sexually active. Remember, the vaccine can only protect you from HPV strains that you have not yet been infected with. That is why it is recommended to get it at a young age.
- Children aged 11-12: The aim is to vaccinate children before they become sexually active and are at risk of exposure to the virus. It can be safely given to children as young as 9 years old. At this age, the immune system is most robust and the vaccine responds best.
- Young people up to 26 years of age: Those who were unable to complete the vaccination series at a young age and those who missed it can get it up to the age of 26.
- Some adults up to age 45: People up to age 45 can now get the vaccine. However, how much it will benefit you depends on your sexual history. For example, if you have had very few sexual partners in the past, getting the vaccine may provide some protection in the future. It is best to talk to your doctor about this and make a decision.
Who should not get the vaccine?
- Pregnant women: Since there is not enough research on the safety of the vaccine during pregnancy, it is best to get the vaccine after you have your baby. However, if you unknowingly find out you are pregnant after receiving a single dose of the vaccine, don't worry. There are no reports of complications during pregnancy caused by the HPV vaccine.
- People who have had an allergic reaction to a previous dose: Tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to a previous HPV vaccine. Also tell your doctor if you have any severe allergies to things like yeast or latex.
- People who are currently suffering from a moderate or severe illness, such as a fever or cold: It is best to wait until you are completely recovered before getting the vaccine.
What is the vaccination schedule?
This vaccine is given as a series of several doses. The number of doses is determined by the age at the time of the first vaccination.
- Ages 9 to 15: Two doses are needed for full protection. The second dose should be given 6 to 12 months after the first dose.
- Ages 15 and older: Three doses are needed for full protection. The second dose should be given 1-2 months after the first, and the third dose should be given 6 months after the first.
Important: If you are immunocompromised, you should receive the entire three-dose series of vaccines, regardless of age.
Is it important for boys to get this vaccine too?
Absolutely yes! Many people think that this vaccine is only important for girls because it prevents cervical cancer. That is a complete misconception .
Although men do not get cervical cancer, HPV can cause throat, penile, and anal cancers . It can also cause genital warts. Getting vaccinated can protect against all of these.
More importantly, a vaccinated man reduces the risk of transmitting the HPV virus to his future partner. This means that he protects himself and his partner from the risk of cervical cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Do I still need to have a Pap test even if I have received the HPV vaccine?
Absolutely yes! Even if you have been vaccinated, it is essential to get regular Pap tests and HPV tests. Because while the vaccines protect against the highest-risk HPV types, they do not protect against all cancer-causing types. Therefore, if cervical cancer is to be detected and treated at an early stage, it is essential to get tested.
If I have had HPV before, does it make sense for me to get the vaccine?
That's something you should discuss with your doctor. While the vaccine won't cure an existing infection, it can protect you from other HPV strains you haven't been exposed to yet. If you've had multiple sexual partners, the vaccine may be less effective. So, talk to your doctor to make the best decision.
Why are some parents afraid to give this vaccine to their children?
Some parents refuse vaccinations because of misinformation and myths. For example, some fear that children will become sexually active sooner after receiving the vaccine. This is completely wrong. A child does not decide to become sexually active because of a vaccine. The social and psychological reasons that influence this are very complex.
What's really happening is that this vaccine will save your child's life by protecting them from deadly diseases like cancer when they enter a healthy adult sexual life in the future.
Take-Home Message
- The HPV vaccine is a very effective way to prevent several types of cancer, such as cervical cancer, throat cancer, anal cancer, and genital warts.
- This is equally important for both girls and boys. The ideal age is 11-12 years, but it can be taken later if desired.
- This is a preventative measure, not a treatment for an existing infection.
- Even if vaccinated, it is still mandatory for women to have a Pap test at the scheduled times.
- If you or your child has any concerns or fears about vaccination, discuss them openly with your doctor and make the right decision.
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