Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus, and vaccination against it offers robust protection against the types of HPV infections that are most likely to cause cancer. For the best protection, the HPV vaccine series is recommended before any potential exposure to the virus. In the United States alone, HPV is linked to approximately 36,000 cancer cases annually in both men and women, highlighting the critical role of preventative measures. Consulting with a Human Papillomavirus Doctor is a vital step in understanding your risks and the benefits of vaccination.
Understanding HPV Vaccines: What Your Doctor May Recommend
There are different types of HPV vaccines available, and your human papillomavirus doctor can provide guidance on the most suitable option and timing for vaccination. Early vaccination is emphasized because it provides protection well before any potential exposure to the virus.
Gardasil-9: The Primary Vaccine in the U.S.
In the United States, Gardasil-9 (9vHPV) is the commonly administered HPV vaccine. This vaccine is designed to protect against nine HPV types (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58), offering broad protection against HPV-related diseases.
Other HPV Vaccine Options
Previously, two other HPV vaccines were available in the U.S.: the quadrivalent HPV vaccine (Gardasil, 4vHPV) and the bivalent HPV vaccine (Cervarix, 2vHPV). While these are no longer the primary vaccines used, it’s important to know that all HPV vaccines, including these earlier versions, offer protection against HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for the majority of HPV cancers.
Alt: Infographic emphasizing early HPV vaccination for children aged 11-12 to protect against future HPV infections and cancers.
HPV Vaccination Schedules: Doctor Recommendations
Your human papillomavirus doctor will advise on the appropriate HPV vaccination schedule based on age and individual circumstances.
Recommended Schedule for Children and Teens:
Children aged 11–12 years are advised to receive a 2-dose HPV vaccine series, with the doses administered 6 to 12 months apart. Vaccination can start as early as age 9. If the first dose is given before the 15th birthday, only two doses are necessary.
- First Dose: Recommended at 11–12 years old (can start at age 9)
- Second Dose: 6–12 months after the first dose
For children aged 9–14 years who receive two HPV vaccine doses less than 5 months apart, a third dose is required.
Schedule for Older Teens and Young Adults:
Individuals aged 15–26 years who begin the vaccine series later in life require a 3-dose HPV vaccine schedule.
- These doses are given over a 6-month period.
- If vaccination hasn’t started during teenage years, consulting a doctor about starting as soon as possible is crucial.
Recommendations for Individuals with Weakened Immune Systems and Older Adults:
People with compromised immune systems aged 9–26 years should receive a 3-dose series. For adults older than 26, routine HPV vaccination is generally not recommended. However, some adults aged 27 through 45 who are not already vaccinated might consider vaccination after discussing their individual risk factors for new HPV infections and potential benefits with their doctor. It’s important to note that the effectiveness of HPV vaccination decreases in this older age range as more individuals have already been exposed to HPV.
Why HPV Vaccination is Important: Consult Your Doctor
HPV is a highly prevalent virus, and infection can lead to various cancers later in life. Each year, approximately 13 million people in the U.S., including teenagers, become infected with HPV. HPV vaccination, guided by your human papillomavirus doctor, is a powerful tool to protect against these HPV-related cancers.
Alt: Infographic illustrating the commonality of HPV and the importance of vaccination for prevention of related cancers.
Who Should Get Vaccinated? Talk to Your HPV Doctor
HPV vaccination is recommended for all children at ages 11–12 years, and can start as early as age 9. Your human papillomavirus doctor will emphasize that vaccinating preteens is essential to protect them before potential HPV exposure and prevent future cancers. Teenagers and young adults up to age 26 who have not initiated or completed the HPV vaccine series should also consult their doctor about vaccination.
When Vaccination Might Not Be Recommended
It’s important to inform your doctor about any severe allergies. Certain individuals should not receive specific HPV vaccines if they have:
- A history of life-threatening allergic reactions to any component of an HPV vaccine or a previous dose.
- An allergy to yeast (relevant for Gardasil and Gardasil 9).
- Pregnancy.
Mild illnesses are not contraindications for HPV vaccination. Children with minor conditions like a low-grade fever (below 101 degrees), a cold, runny nose, or cough can still be safely vaccinated. However, individuals with moderate or severe illnesses should wait until they recover before getting vaccinated.
HPV Vaccine Safety and Effectiveness: Reassurance from Your Doctor
HPV vaccines are rigorously tested and have proven to be highly effective. They have the potential to prevent over 90% of cancers caused by HPV. Since HPV vaccine introduction, there has been a significant decline in HPV-related health issues:
- Reduced incidence of genital warts among teens and young adults.
- Decreased cases of cervical precancers in young women.
The protection conferred by HPV vaccines is long-lasting, with studies showing sustained high protection for at least 12 years without any evidence of waning immunity. Since 2006, when HPV vaccines became available in the United States, HPV infections and cervical precancers have significantly decreased.
- Infections with HPV types causing most HPV cancers and genital warts have dropped by 88% among teen girls.
- Among young adult women, these infections have decreased by 81%.
- Cervical precancers linked to the HPV types most often associated with cervical cancer have fallen by 40% among vaccinated women.
Early Vaccination: Key to Protection
As your human papillomavirus doctor will explain, the HPV vaccine is most effective when administered well before any potential exposure to the virus. This proactive approach ensures maximum protection against HPV-related diseases.
Possible HPV Vaccine Side Effects: Discuss with Your Doctor
Many individuals experience no side effects after HPV vaccination. When side effects do occur, they are typically mild, such as soreness at the injection site. Common mild side effects can include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling in the arm where the shot was given
- Fever
- Dizziness or fainting (more common in adolescents after vaccination)
- Headache or fatigue
- Nausea
- Muscle or joint pain
To minimize the risk of fainting and related injuries, it’s recommended that teens sit or lie down during vaccination and for 15 minutes afterward. Discuss any concerns about potential side effects with your human papillomavirus doctor.
Accessing HPV Vaccination: Finding and Paying for the Vaccine
Your doctor’s office is usually the most convenient place to receive recommended vaccines. If your primary care physician does not carry the HPV vaccine, they can provide a referral. Vaccines may also be available at pharmacies, workplaces, community health clinics, health departments, or schools. Contacting your local health department can provide information on vaccine availability in your community.
Keep Reading: Where to Find Vaccines
Understanding Vaccine Costs and Coverage
Several options are available to manage vaccine costs:
Health Insurance Coverage
Most health insurance plans cover the cost of recommended vaccines. However, it’s advisable to verify coverage details with your insurance provider beforehand, including cost information and in-network vaccine provider lists.
Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program
The Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program provides vaccines at no cost to eligible children who may lack insurance or financial resources for vaccination. Inquire with your human papillomavirus doctor or local health department about eligibility for this program.
Consulting a human papillomavirus doctor is the best way to get personalized advice and ensure you or your child receive the recommended HPV vaccination for optimal protection against HPV-related diseases.
