Importance of the HPV Vaccine
Most cervical cancers are associated with sexually transmitted infections (HPV). However, the HPV vaccine could prevent or reduce the impacts of cervical cancer. This blog will give a deep insight into who needs the HPV vaccine, and how does it work?
What does the HPV vaccine do?
HPV usually spread through sexual contact. It is the most common factor associated with cervical cancer. If a girl or a woman is immunized with the HPV vaccine before getting exposed to the virus, it can prevent cervical cancer. It prevents vaginal and vulvar cancer, genital warts, and anal cancer. You can get immunized at the best gynecologist hospital in Chennai
This vaccine can also be given to boys. Vaccinating boys also helps to protect girls from the virus by decreasing transmission during sex.
HPV vaccine offers some protection against mouth and throat cancers, too.
Who can take the HPV vaccine, and when should it be given?
The HPV vaccine is recommended for girls ages 11 or 12. It can be given early at age nine too. This vaccine should be given to girls before they make sexual contact and get the risk of being exposed to HPV. After getting infected with HPV, the vaccine might not effective at all. The HPV vaccine works better at a younger age than older age.
Two doses of HPV vaccine at least six months apart are recommended for all 11 to 12 years old girls. Girls under 15 years should get the two-doses, and three doses of the vaccine should be given from 15 to 26 years of age.
Who should not get the HPV vaccine?
The pregnant women and severely ill people should not get the HPV vaccine. Before getting the vaccine tell your doctor if you have any allergies. People who had experienced a life-threatening allergic reaction to a previous dose of vaccine should not get it.
Can a sexually active female get benefit from the HPV vaccine?
Yes, it can benefit you. Even if you have one strain of HPV, this vaccine can protect you from getting other strains. But, it cannot treat an existing HPV infection.
Is the HPV vaccine a replacement for Pap tests?
The HPV vaccine is not a replacement for Pat tests. Regular Pap tests should begin at the age of 21. Routine screening is an essential part of women’s health care. Contact the best gynecologist hospital in Chennai to know more about the HPV vaccine and Pap tests.
What can you do to protect yourself from cervical cancer if you're not in the recommended vaccine age group?
Any kind of sexual contact like oral, vaginal, or anal spread HPV. You can protect yourself from getting HPV infection by using condoms for sex, and by quitting smoking. Regular screening helps to detect cervical cancer in the earliest stages. Pap tests should begin at the age of 21. Vaginal bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause, pelvic pain, or pain during sex are the early symptoms of cervical cancer. If you get any of the above symptoms, seek medical help from your healthcare provider.
