Cervical cancer is related to human papillomavirus or HPV which is a STI. Due to widespread immunization with HPV vaccine, this can lessen the impact of cervical cancer and other cancers due to HPV.
What HPV vaccine can do
Different strains of HPV need to spread through sexual contact and is related to most cervical cancer. Gardasil 9 is an HPV vaccine that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is in use for both boys and girls.
The vaccine may help to avoid most cervical cancer cases when the vaccine is given before girls or women get exposed to this virus. The vaccine can prevent vulvar and vaginal cancer, anal cancer, head, throat, mouth and neck cancer and genital warts in men and women.
About HPV vaccine and when it should be given
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC, it is suggested that the HPV vaccine is given to boys and girls and boys between the age group of 11 and 12. It is a suitable option for boys and girls to get the vaccine before they come in sexual contact and have been exposed to HPV. Getting the vaccine at a young age has not been linked to early start of sexual activity.
When someone gets the infection through HPV, the vaccine might not be that effective. So, the response to this vaccine is better at younger age than older age.
As per the CDC, all people in 11 and 12 years should get two doses of HPV vaccine for at least six months. Young adolescents in the age group of 9 and 10 and teenagers in 13 and 14 also can get the vaccination on two-dose schedule. The two-dose schedule can be effective for kids below 15.
The teens and youngsters who start vaccine series later from 15 years to 26 years need to get three doses of vaccine.
According to the CDC, catch -up HPV vaccinations are for all people from 26 years who have not been vaccinated properly.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has now given the approval of using Gardasil 9 for males and females who are within 9 to 45 years. If you are in the age group of 27 to 45, then you need to discuss with the doctor whether he/she suggests you get the HPV vaccine.
Who should not get HPV vaccine?
Pregnant women or people who are moderately or extremely sick should not take HPV vaccine. You need to speak with the doctor if you are having severe allergies which include latex or yeast. In case you have had allergic reaction to any vaccine component or earlier dose of vaccine which could be life-threatening, you should not take the vaccine.
How HPV vaccine provide benefits when you remain sexually active
Yes, if you get one HPV strain, you might still benefit from this vaccine. This may protect you from other kinds of stains that you do not have. But none of the vaccines may treat the HPV infection. The vaccines will protect you only from particular HPV strains you have not been exposed to.
How HPV vaccine carry side effects or health problems
The HPV vaccine is safe and the effects seem to be mild. Common side effects include – redness, swelling or soreness at the injection site.
Sometimes, fainting or dizziness take place after the injection. The leftover seated for 15 minutes after the injection in order to lessen the risk of fainting. Fatigue, headaches, nausea, weakness or vomiting may happen.
HPV vaccine is needed for the enrolment in school
The private HPV vaccine is a part of routine schedule for childhood vaccines. Whether a vaccine becomes the need for school enrolment, this will be decided on a state-by-state basis.
How women require to conduct Pap tests
Yes, the HPV vaccine is not required for replacing Pap tests. Routine screening for cervical cancer with regular Pap tests generally start from 21 years which is necessary for preventative health care.
How to protect from cervical cancer when you are not in the recommended vaccine age group
HPV can spread with anal, oral or vaginal contact. In order to protect yourself from HPV, you should use a condom each time you enjoy sex. Also, you should not smoke as it increases the risk of cervical cancer.
For the detection of cervical cancer at the early stage, you should visit your doctor for routine Pap tests starting from 21 years. So, seek for medical attention when you detect any signs or symptoms of cervical cancer, pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding after intercourse, pain at the time of sex, between the periods or after your menopause.
