HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a very common virus that is easily transmitted through contact and sexual activity. Most people who have ever been sexually active will be exposed to it at least once in their lifetime. In most cases the body clears the virus on its own, but some strains, if the infection becomes persistent, can lead to cancer. The good news is that there is a vaccine that helps protect against these high-risk strains.
Understanding HPV and related diseases
HPV has many strains. Some cause warts, while others are classed as "high-risk strains" associated with the development of cancer. Important diseases caused by HPV include:
- Cervical cancer, the most common disease and the one most strongly associated with HPV
- Vaginal and vulvar cancer
- Anal cancer, found in both women and men
- Cancer of the mouth and throat (oropharynx)
- Genital warts, which cause distress and are difficult to treat
How the vaccine works
The HPV vaccine prompts the body to build immunity against high-risk strains before any actual exposure to the virus, so it effectively lowers the risk of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. It is a vaccine with established safety that is used widely around the world.
Who should be vaccinated, and how many doses
The HPV vaccine works best when given "before first sexual contact," because this is when a person has not yet been exposed to the virus. However, adults who have already been sexually active still benefit, as they may not yet have been infected with every strain covered by the vaccine.
- Girls and boys aged 9–14 generally receive 2 doses
- Those aged 15 and over receive 3 doses on schedule
- Men can be vaccinated too, to prevent genital warts and anal cancer and to reduce transmission
Vaccinating boys not only protects them from disease but also helps reduce transmission within the community as a whole, making the prevention of HPV-related cancers even more effective.
Even after vaccination, screening is still needed
Even after vaccination, women should still undergo cervical cancer screening as recommended by their doctor, such as a Pap smear or HPV test, because the vaccine does not cover every strain. Combining vaccination with regular screening provides the most complete protection.
At Doctor Chat Clinic, vaccines are administered by a doctor and stored in a temperature-controlled system that meets hospital-grade standards, so you can be confident that every dose remains effective and safe. We also provide advice on the screening best suited to each individual.
When to see a doctor
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding, or bleeding after sexual intercourse
- Abnormal or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or persistent lower abdominal pain
- A lump or wart felt around the genitals or anus
- You have reached the age for screening but have never been screened, or your previous result was abnormal