HPV Vaccination

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus spread through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. Certain HPV strains can cause:

• Cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers.
• Genital warts.
• Other cancers (e.g., throat, anal).

Why get vaccinated as an adult?

• Protection against new infections: The vaccine protects you against HPV strains that you haven’t encountered or been exposed to before.
• Cancer Prevention: Reduces risk of HPV-related cancers by up to 90%.
• Genital Wart Prevention: Shields against strains causing 90% of genital warts.
• Age Eligibility: Recommended for women up to age 45 (per CDC guidelines).

Is the HPV vaccine safe?

• Safety Profile: Extensively tested; millions of doses administered globally.
• Common Side Effects:
  • Mild pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
  • Temporary fever or dizziness.
• Serious Reactions: Extremely rare. Discuss allergies (e.g., yeast) with your provider.

What to expect

• Dosing:
  • 2 doses (if vaccinated before age 15/adolescent vaccination).
  • 3 doses (if starting at age 15–45, or known to have weakened immune system – spaced over 6 months).
• Administration: Available at clinics, pharmacies, or healthcare providers.
• Cost: Check insurance coverage or local health programs.

Important considerations

• Pregnancy: Not recommended during pregnancy, but safe while breastfeeding.
• Fertility: No evidence of impact on fertility; may protect against cervical cancer risks.
• Cervical Screenings: Continue Cervical/Pap smears/HPV tests—the vaccine doesn’t cover all HPV types.