Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the name given to a group of more than 100 types of viruses — more than 30 of which can be passed through sexual contact. And while the HPV vaccine to prevent certain types of cervical cancer has been in the news for many years, you may still have questions about it and how it applies to you.
Genital HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. At some time in their lives, at least 50 percent of sexually active men and women get genital HPV. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately 6 million new cases of HPV are reported every year. About 20 million Americans ages 15 to 49 currently have HPV. Since HPV often has no symptoms, people frequently pass it on to their partners without even realizing it.
HPV often goes away on its own. But in cases where it does not, it can infect a woman’s cervix and cause cells to change. If such changes are not found and treated, they may become cancerous. The cervical cancer vaccine protects against the four major HPV types that can cause this to happen.
In general, the vaccine is most effective if given to people who are not yet sexually active so that they will not have already acquired any of the four HPV types that the vaccine protects against. Current recommendations are that girls receive three doses of the HPV vaccine, usually beginning at age 11-12. If the series isn’t completed then, it can also be given between the ages of 13 and 26.
Current research has only been done to test the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine in females 26 and younger who are not pregnant. If future research shows it is safe for older women or males, it may be recommended for these groups as well.
Pap tests are important for detecting precancerous changes to the cervix that can lead to cervical cancer. This applies both to women who have had the vaccine and those who haven’t. Women who had the HPV vaccine still need regular Pap tests for several reasons:
Since HPV is passed from one person to another, even people who have only had one sex partner can acquire it if that partner has had other sex partners. Condoms provide limited protection against HPV because areas of skin not covered by the condom can be exposed to the virus. However, condoms are still valuable because they can reduce the risk of genital warts, HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases when used correctly.
If you’re concerned about HPV or if you’re interested in the vaccine, talk to your doctor at Riverview Health. We can help you determine the most effective way to protect yourself based on your age and personal health history.
Has it been a while since your last check-up, or do you need a new physician? Call us at 317.565.0535 to request an appointment.
Sources: Cancer.gov, CDC.gov, NIAID.NIH.gov
