Is your daughter growing up to be a big girl? Or are you a young woman? When we hear the word cervical cancer, we get scared, right? But rather than being afraid of it, it is much more important to be aware of the ways to prevent it. Today we are talking about a very important vaccine that provides such protection. That is the HPV vaccine.
Simply put, what is this HPV vaccine?
This is actually a vaccine that protects our bodies. To be precise, it protects us from a virus called 'Human Papillomavirus'. This virus is the main cause of cervical cancer and abnormal cervical lesions .
So, when you get this vaccine, your body builds up immunity to fight against these dangerous viruses. In Sri Lanka, this vaccine is available under the brand name `(Cervarix)`.
But one thing is important to remember. This is not a cure for cancer after it has developed. This is a protection against cancer before it develops. Also, having this vaccine will never make you infected with the virus.
Things to tell your doctor before getting vaccinated
Before you receive this vaccine, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health, especially if you have any of the following conditions:
- Fever or any infection: If you currently have a fever or other infection.
- Bleeding disorders: If you have a blood disorder such as hemophilia that prevents your blood from clotting easily.
- Weakened immune system: If you have HIV infection or AIDS, or if you are taking any other disease or medication that weakens the immune system.
- Low blood platelets: If you have a low platelet count in your blood.
- Allergies: If you have previously had an allergy to the HPV vaccine, another medicine, food, dye, or preservative.
- Pregnancy: If you are currently pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- Breastfeeding: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding a child.
Based on this information, your doctor will decide the best time and method to give you the vaccine.
How is this vaccine given?
This is a very simple process.
1. Vaccination site: This vaccine is given in the muscle of your upper arm . It is given by a doctor or a trained health professional.
2. Number of doses: To achieve successful results, three doses (3 doses) must be completed.
- First dose: The first day you get the vaccine.
- Second dose: One month after the first dose.
- Third dose: Five months after the second dose (that is, 6 months after the first).
3. Observation: After the injection, you will be observed for about 15 minutes . Sometimes you may feel a little dizzy after the injection. This is normal, so don't worry. So you will be asked to sit or lie down.
4. Information Sheet: Before you are given the vaccine, you will be given a Vaccine Information Statement to read. The information may change frequently, so read it carefully before each dose.
Do you give this to small children?
Yes. This vaccine can usually be recommended for children as young as 10 years old. However, your pediatrician will make the decision. So if you are considering giving your daughter this vaccine, talk to your doctor about it and find out the details.
What are the expected side effects?
Like any vaccine, this one can cause minor side effects. Most of these are not serious. But it's important to be aware.
| Side effect | What to do? |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Severe allergic reactions: skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. | Inform your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU). |
| Difficulty breathing. | Seek medical advice immediately. It is best to go to the ETU. |
| Severe dizziness, lightheadedness, or loss of consciousness. | Notify your doctor immediately. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or itching at the injection site. | These usually go away in a few days. If they persist or are bothersome, tell your doctor. |
| Headache, muscle pain, stomach pain. | It usually subsides within a few days. If it persists, tell your doctor. |
| Vomiting, nausea, or diarrhea. | If these persist or become severe, talk to your doctor. |
A few other important points
- What if you miss a dose? Don't worry. Call your doctor as soon as possible and schedule your next appointment. It's very important to complete all of your scheduled doses.
- Is the vaccine enough? No. This is very important. The vaccine does not protect against all types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. Therefore, even if you get the vaccine, it is still important to have a Pap smear at the scheduled time as recommended by your doctor. This is the best way to detect any changes in the cervix as soon as possible.
- How is HPV spread? It is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). It can be spread through any activity that involves touching the genitals. Therefore, getting the vaccine before having any sexual contact is the best way to protect yourself.
This vaccine is given in a hospital, clinic, or doctor's office, so you don't have to take it home with you. Don't worry about that.
Take-Home Message
- The HPV vaccine is an important step that protects you from the main types of HPV that cause cervical cancer.
- This is not a cure for cancer, but a way to prevent it.
- Even after getting the vaccine, be sure to continue having Pap smears at the scheduled times as recommended by your doctor.
- The best protection is achieved by completing all 3 doses of the vaccine on time.
- If you have any questions, concerns, or unusual symptoms about this, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor.
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