Windsor-Essex County HPV Information
common
questions
A board certified gynecologist answers common questions from real patients.
Case #1
A 25 year old woman asks: “This vaccine is for young girls. Why should I get it?”
Answer: The vaccine is recommended for women from age 9 to 45. The younger you get the vaccine, the better, but it’s not too late. Until age 14 only 2 doses are necessary. After age 14, 3 doses are recommended for immunization. The vaccine is safe, effective and strongly recommended by experts. There is safety and efficacy data for both women and men up to age 45.
Case #2
A 21 year old woman asks: “I have already had genital warts. Should I still get the vaccine?”
Answer: It is very rare that a woman has been exposed to all strains of the HPV virus covered by the vaccine. Genital warts are caused by HPV 6 and 11. Gardasil covers other HPV strains that cause cancer. Also, research shows that the vaccine decreases the risk of getting a new HPV infection in women who have had a prior HPV infection.
Case #3
A 15 year old girl asks: “I have heard that women have died from this vaccine.”
Answer: There have been no deaths that were directly related to the vaccine. There have been 270 million doses given and there has been no serious side effects or deaths.
Case #4
A 16 year old girl asks: “My parents did not sign the permission slip for the HPV when I was in grade 8. After doing my own research I want to get this shot.”
Answer: The catch-up program in Ontario is available until the end of grade 12. The vaccine is available free of charge through the Health Unit. Click here for Health Unit information.
'Case #5
A 18 year old girl asks: "I received Gardasil 4 in grade 8. I understand that there is a new Gardasil 9 that covers more viruses. Can I get this vaccine?
Answer: Gardasil 9 now gives 90% protection against cervical cancer whereas with Gardasil 4 the protection was 70%. You cannot receive Gardasil 9 though the Health Unit, but you may be covered by private insurance. You will need to contact your insurance provider.
