Cervical cancer vaccine: Who needs it, how it works

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix. Most cervical cancer is caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted infection in a small number of women, the virus survives for years. Eventually, the virus can lead to the conversion of normal cells on the surface of the cervix into cancer cells.

Cervical cancer strikes about 10,000 women a year and causes nearly 4,000 deaths in the United States. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 510,000 new cases of cervical cancer are reported each year.

Two Vaccines are now available:

• Gardasil
• Cervarix

When to Vaccinate:

• Girls 9 – 12 years old should be vaccinated.
• Experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend catch-up immunizations for girls and women ages 13 to 26 who haven't been vaccinated or who haven't completed the full vaccine series.

Side Effects:

• Minimal side effects are associated with injection site. Girls and women will want to discuss potential risk or side effects associated with the vaccine with their provider (s).

How to Prevent Cervical Cancer

• Practice safe sex. If you are sexually active, ALWAYS use a condom.
  
  
• Limit your number of sexual partners
  
  
• Do not smoke. Smoking doubles the risk of cervical cancer.

To detect cervical cancer in the earliest stages, see your doctor for regular pelvic exams and Pap tests. Seek prompt medical attention if you notice any signs or symptoms of cervical cancer — vaginal bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause; foul-smelling watery or bloody vaginal discharge; pelvic pain; or pain during sex.

For more information visit: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cervical-cancer-vaccine/WO00120

Reminder: Add your immunizations to your Personal Health Record.