HPV and Vaccination

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Prevention

Because many people are infected with human papillomavirus without knowing it, abstinence (i.e., not having sex) is the only sure way to prevent genital HPV infection. Other ways to reduce the risk for contracting HPV include limiting the number of sexual partners and choosing a partner who has had a limited number of sexual partners.

Although the use of condoms can help prevent HPV infection to areas of skin that are covered, the virus can be transmitted through any exposed areas. Practicing safer sex also can help prevent reduce the risk for genital HPV infection.

Vaccination
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the vaccine Gardasil® for use in girls and young women between the ages of 9 and 26. Gardasil can help prevent infection from four types of HPV: 6, 11, 16, and 18.

Approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV types 16 and 18. HPV types 6 and 11 cause about 90% of all cases of genital warts. According to the FDA Office of Women’s Health, Gardasil is 95–100% effective in preventing these types of HPV.

Gardasil does not contain any form of the actual human papillomavirus, live or dead; instead, it contains substances that behave like HPV, allowing the body to build resistance to the virus.

The vaccine is administered in three doses. The first dose is administered at a time determined by the physician and the patient, or if the young woman is under the age of 18, the patient's parent or guardian. The second dose is administered 2 months after the first dose and the third dose is administered 6 months after the first dose.

Studies have shown that this vaccine causes few side effects. Some patients experience nausea, dizziness, and a low-grade fever (below 101°F). Temporary soreness, redness, or itching at the vaccination site also is possible.

Gardasil is most effective when girls are vaccinated before becoming sexually active. The vaccine does not provide protection against a specific type of HPV after infection with that type has occurred. However, vaccination is still recommended because it can protect against other types of HPV.

It is important to note that the HPV vaccine does not treat HPV infection or related health problems. It also does not prevent all types of HPV that cause cervical cancer, so all women should still have regular Pap tests.

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