HPV Vaccines - Fact and Fiction

July 5th, 2024
by Michael Melgar

Understanding the HPV Vaccine: What You Need to Know

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can affect both men and women. In fact, it's so common that nearly everyone who is sexually active will get infected at some point in their lives. This is because the virus is highly contagious through sexual contact and even if you have had only one sexual contact that person may have had others. While most HPV infections resolve on their own without causing any symptoms or problems, some can lead to genital warts and several different kinds of cancer.

Among the various strains of HPV, some are more concerning than others because they are linked to cancers such as cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and throat cancers. In fact, almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV infections.

The Importance of the HPV Vaccine
The good news is that there's a vaccine available that can help protect against the most dangerous types of HPV. The HPV vaccine works by teaching the body's immune system to recognize and fight the virus before it can cause problems like cancer. It's recommended for both boys and girls before they become sexually active, typically around the age of 11 or 12, but can be given as early as 9 years old and for those who were never vaccinated in their younger years, it can be given up to age 45.

Debunking Myths About the HPV Vaccine
There are several myths and misconceptions about the HPV vaccine that are important to clarify:

Myth 1: The HPV vaccine reduces fertility.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support this claim. The HPV vaccine does not affect fertility in men or women. Despite millions of doses administered and continuous monitoring for nearly two decades no signal has arisen to suggest that the HPV vaccines affect fertility in a negative way.

Myth 2: The HPV vaccine promotes promiscuity.
Fact: The HPV vaccine is given at an age before most individuals become sexually active. Its purpose is to prevent HPV-related cancers, not to influence behavior. There are many other sexual transmitted diseases of concern including HIV, Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and others. There is little reason to believe that protection against this one STD will cause young people to be less concerned about STD's and therefor more sexually promiscuous and there is no evidence to support that concern.

Myth 3: Only women need to be vaccinated against HPV.
Fact: Both boys and girls should receive the HPV vaccine. It protects against cancers that can affect both sexes.

Myth 4: The vaccine has caused young women to pass out
Fact: Patients who receive the HPV vaccine pass out at the same rate as anyone who is given any other vaccine or has had their blood drawn. Any time a needle is used some patients pass out momentarily during the needle stick. It has nothing to do with the vaccine itself.

Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is recommended for adolescents and young adults because it is most effective when given before exposure to the virus through sexual activity. Even if you think your children will only have one sexual partner in their lifetime, their one partner may have had others, and if thats the case then that person most likely will have had HPV. The HPV Vaccine is specifically recommended for the following individuals:

Girls and boys starting at ages 11 to 12: The vaccine is most effective when given at this age because it ensures protection before potential exposure to HPV.

Men and Women up to age 45: If not vaccinated earlier, it's still beneficial to get vaccinated within these age ranges as the vaccine can still offer protection.

How is The Vaccine Given?

Children ages 9-14 - Intramuscular injection. Two doses. The first dose followed by a second dose 6-12 months later. No additional boosters are ever needed
Individuals Age 15-45 - Intramuscular injection. Three doses. The first dose is followed by second dose 1-2 months later and. third dose 6 months after the first. No booster doses are recommended

The Bottom Line

The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against several types of cancer caused by HPV infection. It is recommended for both boys and girls to be vaccinated around age 11 or 12, but it can be given as early as age 9 and as late as 45 but the earlier the better. Dispelling myths about the vaccine, such as its impact on fertility or behavior, is crucial to understanding its true benefits. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself, but also future partners, and you contribute to reducing the overall burden of HPV-related diseases in our communities. Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about the HPV vaccine and how it can benefit you and your loved ones.

Gardasil Vaccine Information Statement (VIS)

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