HPV vaccine

When given the choice, most people want to do whatever they can to lower their risk of cancer. Although some cancer risk factors are uncontrollable, there are some factors within your control. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a research-backed, effective tool that significantly reduces cancer risk.

At Advocate Health Care, we offer HPV vaccines and other vaccines in multiple convenient locations. You have access to comprehensive, compassionate care throughout the Chicago metro area.

What is the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is a two- or three-dose shot designed to protect against the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It significantly increases your risk of certain types of cancer, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, mouth, throat and head and neck cancers.

Why is the HPV vaccine important?

The HPV vaccine is one of the most effective tools to prevent cancer. Researchers estimate that getting vaccinated can prevent up to 90% of HPV-related cancers. Since the HPV vaccine was introduced, cancer-causing HPV infections have decreased by 88% among teen girls and 80% among young women.

The HPV vaccine isn’t only important for female patients. It prevents genital warts and cancers in both males and females. Vaccinating boys and men against HPV also helps to stop the spread of HPV strains that cause cervical cancer in girls and women.

What is HPV?

HPV is an extremely common viral infection that includes over 200 different strains and is divided into two main types: low-risk HPV and high-risk HPV. The infection is spread through sexual contact, and nearly everyone will get HPV at some point in their lives. You can get HPV by having vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has the virus.

What are the symptoms of HPV?

Most often, HPV presents no symptoms, but the most common sign is itchy and uncomfortable warts in your genital area. They may also appear like skin tags and often only appear months or years after you’ve been infected. Genital warts are contagious, so it’s important to take care and be cautious. Sometimes, HPV can cause cell changes and develop into cancer.

What are the risk factors of HPV?

Since HPV is so common, it’s not unusual for people to become infected with HPV soon after becoming sexually active. There are certain factors that put you at a higher risk for developing the infection. These can include:

• Number of sexual partners: A higher number of sexual partners puts you at a higher risk for developing a genital HPV infection.
• Age: Genital warts are most common in adolescents and young adults.
• A weakened immune system: Certain medications and diseases (like HIV/AIDS) weaken your immune system and can put you at a higher risk of developing HPV.
• Personal contact with genital warts: Since genital warts are contagious, touching them can increase your risk of developing HPV.

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

Adolescent girls and boys should get the HPV vaccine around age 11 or 12. Men and women may also be candidates for the HPV shot, depending on their health risks.

At what age should you get the HPV vaccine?

Ideally, HPV vaccination should start in adolescence. The CDC provides recommendations for two-dose and three-dose HPV vaccines:

• Two-dose HPV vaccines: All children ages 11 to 12 get two doses of the HPV vaccine, given six to 12 months apart. Teens need only two doses if they get both shots as recommended before age 15.
• Three-dose HPV vaccines: Teens and young adults ages 15 to 26 who never received or finished the vaccination series should get three doses of the HPV vaccine. Children age 9 through 15 who got two HPV vaccine doses less than five months apart also need another dose.

Can I still get the HPV vaccine after age 26?

Some adults ages 27 to 45 may receive the HPV vaccine if they’ve never been vaccinated. The HPV vaccine is most effective if you get it before having any sexual contact. Your provider can discuss whether HPV vaccination could be beneficial for you.

Can you get the HPV vaccine at any age?

Doctors don’t typically recommend HPV vaccination after age 45. The vaccine doesn’t provide as much benefit for older people because most adults have been exposed to HPV. If you’ve never received the vaccine and are over 45, you may discuss with your doctor whether HPV vaccination is right for you.

How often do you need to get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is a two-dose or three-dose vaccine given on a specific schedule. You don’t need another dose or a booster after getting your last shot.

HPV vaccine side effects

Some people have no side effects from the HPV vaccine. Others experience mild side effects for a day or two, such as:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Low fever
• Nausea
• Soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site

Call your health care provider if side effects last more than 48 hours. Very rarely, people can experience severe allergic reactions. Tell your health care provider if you have a history of severe allergies. You may not be a candidate for the vaccine.

Preventing HPV-related cancers with the HPV vaccine

Most health care providers and researchers agree that getting the HPV vaccine is critical for preventing cancer in both men and women. The HPV vaccine available in the U.S. protects against nine different strains of HPV, including the two types that cause most HPV-related cancers.

Research also shows that giving your child the HPV vaccine does not increase their risk of sexual activity or make them more likely to be sexually active at a younger age. Your health care provider can answer any specific questions you have about the HPV vaccine.