HPV Vaccine: Everything You Want to Know About Cervical Cancer Prevention Regarding

The HPV vaccine is essential for lowering the risk of cervical cancer. It can be taken by men, women, and transgender people

The HPV vaccine is the sole available preventive measure for cervical cancer in the world during the month of January. Cervical cancer strikes millions of women in India every year.

The human papillomavirus (HPV), which can enter the body through sexual activity, is the primary cause of cervical cancer. Much like any other virus that can cause cancer, it has a variety of forms. Martina Navratilova, a tennis icon, recently disclosed to Tweak India that she was battling HPV-related breast and throat cancers.

The vaccination fortifies the body against the variations and stops the disease’s progression. To get all of your queries answered, we spoke with Dr. Kanika Batra Modi, Senior Consultant – Gynaecologic Oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket.

How Does the HPV Vaccine Function?

The HPV vaccine works by assisting the body’s defence mechanisms in identifying and eliminating the infection. Similar to how COVID-19 vaccinations are defending against the virus, it builds a barrier against it.

Once the vaccine has been administered in its whole, the body is able to mount an immune response, identify the virus, and combat it.

We advise every girl and woman to take it because it is the only method currently available to prevent cancer.

What Are The Different HPV Treatment Options Offered In India?

There are now two HPV vaccines on the market: Cervarix and Gardasil 9. Nine distinct kinds of HPV, including 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58 strains of HPV, are the focus of the nine-valent vaccine Gardasil 9.

Numerous incidences of vaginal, vulvar, anal, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancer as well as the majority of cases of cervical cancer are known to be caused by these variations. Additionally, they may cause genital warts (a small bump on the genitals).

Cervarix is a 2-valent vaccine that specifically targets HPV types 16 and 18. They are to blame for the majority of cervical cancer instances.

What Is The HPV Vaccination Process?

Cervarix and Gardasil 9 are administered via a series of shots. For adolescents, the recommended regimen for Gardasil 9 is two shots spaced six to twelve months apart, however those with a weakened immune system or those who have already been exposed to HPV may receive three doses. Three doses of Cervarix are administered over the course of six months.

It is significant to remember that, despite the HPV vaccine’s great effectiveness, not all HPV types are completely protected by it. Dr. Modi advises routine pap tests and cervical cancer examinations as a result. It can assist in finding any abnormal cervical cells the vaccine might have missed or any abnormal cervical cells that appeared after the vaccination.

India recently acquired its own indigenous HPV vaccination, which will be provided to girls between the ages of nine and fourteen in elementary schools. The vaccination will soon receive more details.

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What Kinds Of Cancers Does The HPV Vaccine Prevent?

The HPV virus comes in countless variations. The vaccine gives protection against the majority of virus-related malignancies. This includes genital warts brought on by certain kinds of HPV, as well as cervical cancer, vaginal, vulvar, anal, and oropharyngeal cancer.

Can Men Get the HPV Shot?

The HPV vaccine is safe to use on men. In actuality, both sexes as well as those of other genders are advised to get the HPV vaccine. Although the HPV vaccine is most effective when administered prior to sexual activity, it can still offer some protection if administered later.

The vaccine can shield men from a variety of cancers, including genital warts and oropharyngeal carcinoma (cancer of the back of the throat that also affects the tonsils and base of the tongue).

Anal cancer risk is increased in males who have sex with other guys or who have weakened immune systems.

The HPV vaccination schedule for men is the same as for women. Men should ensure that they have regular cancer tests, such as anal and penile cancer screenings, because the HPV vaccine is not 100% effective. In the event of complications relating to infections, you must still see a doctor.

What Age Is Appropriate For An HPV Vaccine?

Depending on the vaccine being used, there are different vaccination schedules for HPV.

Considering the Gardasil 9 vaccine:

Two doses are administered to patients aged nine to fourteen, spaced six to twelve months apart.

If not finished in their teens, a three-dose sequence given at zero, two, and six months for people aged 15 to 45.

Regarding the Cervarix vaccine,

• A three-dose series given at zero, one, and six months for people aged 10 to 25.

For the HPV vaccine to be as effective as possible, it is crucial to take all prescribed doses.

What Medical Conditions Prevent People from Getting Vaccinated

Despite the fact that the HPV vaccine is generally safe and effective, some individuals might not be encouraged to receive it.

• People who have previously experienced an adverse reaction to any of the vaccine’s ingredients, such yeast, may be the cause.
• Women who are expecting as well as those whose immune systems are compromised by conditions like cancer or medications like immunosuppressive ones.
• If a person has a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome, a devastating autoimmune condition that affects the nerve system, and it develops within six weeks of receiving a previous dose of the tetanus-containing vaccination or in close proximity to that time, they should have the vaccine.
• Temporary connection to an illness or another vaccination
• Those who have previously contracted one or more of the HPV strains the vaccine is intended to prevent

Before receiving the HPV vaccine, Dr. Modi advises patients to discuss with their doctor any specific medical conditions they may have. It aids the physician in determining the best vaccine for the patient.

What Potential Negative Effects of the Vaccine Could There Be? (Hormonal or Otherwise)

The HPV vaccine can cause certain side effects, although they are often minor and transient.

• Redness, swelling, or discomfort at the injection site
• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea

Less frequent adverse reactions to the HPV vaccine include:

• Allergic reactions, however they are quite uncommon. An allergic reaction may cause breathing problems, hives, and facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling.
• The potential occurrence of fainting following any injection. After receiving the HPV vaccine, if you experience dizziness or fainting, sit or lie down for a while.

There is no solid proof that the HPV vaccine causes hormonal imbalances or other changes in the level of hormones, but it’s always wise to speak with your doctor if you have any worries or have any strange symptoms after getting the vaccine.