What is HPV?
HPV stands for Human Papilloma Virus. Did you know that HPV is the most common sexually transmitted viral infection (STI)! Most sexually active individuals (up to 80% of them) will contract HPV at some point in their lives. HPV spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and even through close skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. Condoms reduce the risk but do not completely prevent it.
There are over 200 members of the HPV family. There are some members that do not cause serious illness. These are called ‘low risk’ strains (e.g., HPV 6 and 11) that cause conditions such as genital warts. There are, however, high-risk HPV types (e.g., HPV 16 and 18) that can cause cervical cancer and other cancers. Cervical cancer is the 4th commonest cancer in women worldwide. The introduction of the national cervical screening programme in the UK has been responsible for the major reduction in death rates from cervical cancer.
HPV vaccination
Vaccines against HPV have been available since 2006. It is highly effective in preventing infection from high-risk and low-risk HPV family members. The HPV vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that protect against future HPV infections. It does not treat existing HPV infections or related conditions. The HPV vaccine works best when given before any exposure to HPV.
Cervarix and the new Gardasil 9 are vaccines designed to protect against HPV but they differ in the types of HPV they target. Cervarix has been designed specifically to protect against HPV 16 and 18. It does not protect against genital warts. Gardasil 9 protects against 9 HPV types: HPV 16, 18, 6, and 11, plus five additional high-risk types: 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. It does protect against genital warts, in addition to cervical cancer. Cervarix is less commonly used today, as Gardasil 9 is preferred due to its broader coverage.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
The current recommendation by the CDC is that the vaccine series is started at the age of 11 or 12 (it can be given as early as age 9). Two doses are required if started before age 15, spaced 6-12 months apart. For those who start the series after age 15, three doses are recommended over six months. Vaccination is typically recommended up to age 26 if not completed earlier. For adults over 27, vaccination is not recommended as it provides less benefit because individuals in this age range are more likely to have already been exposed to HPV.
Is it too late for me to get the vaccine?
No, it’s not too late to get the HPV vaccine! While the HPV vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to the virus (typically in preteens), it can still provide benefits for adults who have not been fully vaccinated or who may not have been exposed to all HPV types covered by the vaccine. Gardasil 9 is licensed for use up to the age of 45yrs.
Here at 2Me Clinic, we can assess your medical history, sexual health, and risk factors to help you decide if the vaccine is right for you.
For more information about the HPV vaccine, visit the Patient UK website: https://patient.info/childrens-health/immunisation/human-papillomavirus-immunisation-hpv
