HPV VACCINE

HPV vaccines prevent cancer

About 14 million people, including teens, become infected with human papillomavirus (HPV) each year. And when HPV infections persist, people are at risk for cancer. In fact, approximately 17,600 women and 9,300 men are affected by cancers caused by HPV. Fortunately, there’s a powerful preventive measure: HPV vaccination.

HPV vaccines are safe

There are two vaccines licensed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and recommended by the CDC to protect against HPV-related illness. All vaccines used in the United States must go through extensive safety testing before they’re licensed by the FDA. Once in use, they are continually monitored for safety and effectiveness.

Researchers have conducted numerous studies to ensure the safety of HPV vaccines, both prior to and after their licensing. No serious safety concerns have been confirmed in the large safety studies that have been done since the HPV vaccine became available in 2006. The CDC and FDA have reviewed the safety information available to them for both HPV vaccines and have determined that they are both safe.

Furthermore, the HPV vaccine contains a non-infectious protein derived from the HPV virus—which means the vaccine itself doesn’t cause HPV infection or cancer.

HPV vaccines work

The HPV vaccine is highly effective. In the four years after the vaccine was recommended in 2006, the number of HPV infections in teen girls decreased by 56%. Additionally, research has also shown that fewer teens are getting genital warts since HPV vaccines have been in use.

Research conducted in countries like Australia has demonstrated the significant impact of the HPV vaccine. It has resulted in a notable reduction of cervical pre-cancer cases among women, while also leading to a substantial decline in genital warts among both young women and men.

HPV vaccines provide long-lasting protection

Data from clinical trials and ongoing research tell us that the protection provided by the HPV vaccine is long-lasting. In fact, we know that the HPV vaccine works in the body for at least 10 years without becoming less effective. Data even suggest that the protection provided by the vaccine will continue beyond 10 years.

HPV vaccine is recommended and safe for boys

Gardasil, an HPV vaccine, is recommended for boys to prevent infections that can cause cancers of the mouth/throat, penis, anus, and genital warts.

Like any vaccine or medicine, HPV vaccines might cause side effects

HPV vaccines occasionally cause adverse reactions. The most commonly reported symptoms among females and males are similar, including injection-site reactions (such as pain, redness, or swelling), dizziness, nausea, and headache.

In addition, brief fainting spells and related symptoms can happen after many medical procedures—including vaccinations. However, these reactions are more common among adolescents. Sitting down for approximately 15 minutes after a vaccination can help prevent fainting and fall-related injuries.

After identifying cases of fainting following vaccination, the FDA updated the prescribing information to include guidelines on preventing falls and potential injuries. The CDC regularly emphasizes the importance of healthcare professionals sharing this information with their patients. So tell the doctor or nurse if your child feels dizzy, faint, or light-headed.

HPV vaccines don’t negatively affect fertility

There is no evidence to suggest that the HPV vaccine causes fertility problems. However, not getting the HPV vaccine can leave people vulnerable to HPV cancers. If persistent, high-risk HPV infection in a woman leads to cervical cancer, the treatment of cervical cancer (hysterectomy, chemotherapy, or radiation, for example) could leave a woman unable to have children. Treating cervical pre-cancer can potentially pose risks to a woman's cervix, which may result in complications such as preterm delivery or other related issues.

How can I get help paying for these vaccines?

The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides vaccines for children ages 18 years and younger who are not insured, Medicaid-eligible, American Indian, or Alaska Native. Learn more about the VFC program at https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/vfc/.