HPV vaccination

You probably know that certain lifestyle changes lower your risk of cancer. With the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, you can lower your risk even further. The HPV vaccine is a well-researched tool that significantly reduces your cancer risk.

Aurora Health Care offers HPV vaccination and other vaccines in multiple convenient locations. You have access to comprehensive, compassionate care for your whole family throughout Wisconsin.

What is the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is a shot that protects against human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Certain types of HPV are directly linked to an increased risk of cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, mouth, throat and head and neck cancers.

Why is the HPV vaccine important?

HPV vaccination is important because it’s one of the most effective strategies for preventing cancer. Research has shown that the HPV vaccine prevents up to 90% of HPV-related cancers. And real-life statistics have backed up this research. Since the vaccine was made available in 2006, cancer-causing HPV infections have decreased by 88% among teen girls and 80% among young women.

The HPV vaccine is important for both males and females. It prevents genital warts and cancer types that affect all sexes. And vaccinating everyone helps to stop the spread of HPV types that cause cervical cancers in girls and women.

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

All girls and boys ages 11 to 12 should get their first dose of the HPV vaccine before they have any sexual contact. Teens and older adults may also get the HPV vaccine. You can ask your health care provider whether the HPV shot is right for you based on your health risks.

At what age should you get the HPV vaccine?

Ideally, children should get their first HPV shot around age 11 or 12. The CDC recommends two-dose and three-dose HPV vaccines for different age groups:

• Two-dose HPV vaccines: All children ages 11 to 12 should 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 ages 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?

Adults over 27 and up to 45 may get the HPV vaccine if they’ve never gotten it before. It’s important to understand that HPV vaccination provides the most protection if you get it before you’ve engaged in sexual activity. You can talk with your provider about whether the HPV vaccine is right for you.

Can you get the HPV vaccine at any age?

Doctors don’t typically recommend HPV vaccination for adults over 45 simply because most adults have been exposed to HPV by that age. If you’re over 45 and have never received the HPV vaccine, you may discuss with your doctor whether it’s right for you.

How often do you need to get the HPV vaccine?

You get two or three doses of the HPV vaccine, depending on your age. After you’ve completed the series, you don’t need another booster.

HPV vaccine side effects

Many people have no side effects after getting the HPV vaccine. Others experience minor symptoms for a day or two, such as:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Low fever
• Nausea
• Redness, soreness or swelling at the injection site

Call your health care provider if side effects last longer than 48 hours. Very rarely do people experience serious allergic reactions. If you have a history of severe allergies, it may not be safe to get the shot.

Is it worth it to get the HPV vaccine?

Most health care providers and researchers agree that the HPV vaccine is crucial for preventing cancer in both males and females. In the U.S., the available HPV vaccine protects you against nine different types of HPV, including the two strains that cause most HPV-associated cancers.

Research shows that giving your child the HPV vaccine does not increase their chances of becoming sexually active at a younger age. You and your child’s health care provider should discuss any specific questions you have about the HPV vaccine.