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Obstetrician/Gynecologist at Dreyer Medical Clinic - Mercy Campus, Oswego, and Rush-Copley Campus
HPV is an acronym for human papilloma virus, a “family” of viruses that infect epithelial cells (or surface cells) of many tissues. Of those that infect the cervix, there are those that can cause genital warts and those that can cause cervical cancer. The different types of the virus are known by a numerical designation, for example, HPV 16 or HPV 45. HPV viruses are responsible for more than 95% of cases of cervical cancer - the second most common malignant disease of women worldwide.
There are two HPV vaccines that have been developed. One vaccine is “bivalent” and works against HPV 16 and HPV 18, which together are responsible for about 70% of cervical cancers. The other vaccine is “quadrivalent” and not only works against types 16 and 18, but also types 6 and 11, which are responsible for 80-90% of cases of genital warts. The vaccine can potentially prevent cervical cancer caused by some of the most prevalent types of HPV.
Presently, the primary target group to receive the vaccine is pediatric, 11 to 12 year olds, but the vaccine is approved for females ages 9 through 26. Although sexually active females have generally been exposed to HPV, they are still targeted to receive the vaccine within the stated age range due to the fact that it is unlikely that a woman would be infected with all four types of HPV that the quadrivalent vaccine covers. Even with a prior diagnosis of HPV, the vaccine could still be given. HPV testing is not recommended prior to administration of the vaccine. However, if a woman is currently in the process of evaluation for an abnormal Pap test, she should complete all recommended procedures. It is important to note that the HPV vaccine is not a cure, but rather a preventive tool.
The three-part vaccination is administered intramuscularly. After the initial injection, a second dose is given in two months, and then the third dose is given four months after that. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant. Thus far, the vaccine has proved to be very safe, with the most common side-effect reported to be soreness at the injection site. A slight fever or flu-like symptoms may also occur.
The HPV vaccine offers extra protection, but Pap tests are still necessary. The vaccine does not cover all HPV types implicated in the formation of cervical cancer. Therefore, women who are 21 and over, or have been sexually active through vaginal intercourse for three years should continue regular screening by an annual Pap test. Women over the age of 30 who have had three consecutive years of normal pap smears may discuss with their doctor the possibility of reducing the frequency of their Pap tests to once every two to three years. However, they should still see their gynecologist annually for breast and pelvic exams.
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