Gardasil

Referring back to our post on HPV, HPV stands for the human papilloma virus. It is the most common sexual infection and infects 6 million people in the US every year. HPV is a viral infection, meaning that it’s caused by a virus instead of bacteria. These tend to be more worrisome because unlike bacteria, we cannot cure a viral STI. HPV is spread through sexual activity and skin to skin contact.

There are over 100 types of HPV, however a dozen types of HPV can cause cancer or genital warts. This brings me to the HPV vaccine. Also known as Gardasil,  it helps protect you against the types of HPV I that cause cancer or genital warts.

The vaccine may not protect everyone and it doesn’t protect against all types of HPV, but it has been shown to be very effective in protecting against the high-risk types of HPV. It is administered over the course of six months with three different injections.

How does the Vaccine work? 
There are three HPV vaccines, Gardasil, Gardasil 9, and Cervarix. They all protect against HPV types 16 and 18, which cause the majority of cervical cancer cases. Gardasil and Gardasil 9 also protect against types 6 and 11, which cause majority of genital warts cases. Gardasil 9 protects against an additional 5 strains of HPV which can cause cervical, vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancer.The vaccines make your body’s immune system produce antibodies to these HPV types. The antibodies protect you from getting infected with HPV.
Why should I get the Vaccine?All girls and women ages 9 to 26 should get an HPV vaccine. Boys and men ages 9 to 26 can get the vaccine to prevent genital warts, some cancers of the anus and mouth/throat, and to prevent the spread of HPV to women.

Can I get HPV from the HPV Vaccine?

No. There is no live virus in either HPV vaccine, so they can’t give you an infection.

If I already have HPV, can I still get the Vaccine? 

Yes! And it is recommended because it will protect you from other strains of HPV.

Does the Vaccine treat HPV?

No, the vaccine is not a treatment for HPV. It can only prevent a new HPV infection. There are treatments available for genital warts and ways to cure the cancer caused by HPV though.

Where can I get the Vaccine?

You can get it at most Planned Parenthoods or gynecology offices. Speak with your health professional to see if they can administer the Vaccine.

How much does it cost?

Each dose can cost up to about $170, so all three shots may cost about $500. Many health insurance companies may pay for  HPV vaccines. There are also programs that allow some people without insurance to get a vaccine for low or no cost.

– See more at: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/hpv/hpv-vaccine#sthash.Jnfn0v0X.dpuf