Some
of these viruses are called "high-risk" types and may cause abnormal Pap Tests.
They may also lead to cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, or penis.
Others are called "low-risk" types and they may cause mild Pap Test
abnormalities or genital warts.2
How Do You Get HPV?
HPV
can be transmitted through sexual activity that involves genital contact with a
person that is infected with the virus. Many
who are infected may not show symptoms and don’t know that they have it, so they
can pass on the virus without even knowing it.
How Can I Tell if I
Have It?
Since many people do not show
any symptoms, you need to be tested to determine if you have the virus. For
women, a Pap Test can detect the presence of abnormal or precancerous cells in
the lining of cervix. A Pap Test is
generally part of a full gynecological exam. This
test along with your gynecological exam can help detect precancerous cells
related to HPV. Early detection of these abnormal or precancerous cells is
important for successful treatment. For
women, doctors recommend that at age 21 or within three years after the first
time that you've had sexual intercourse that you receive a Pap Test and Pelvic
Exam.3
Isn’t There a Vaccine
for HPV?
Yes there is a vaccine for
HPV, however, it is recommended for a very specific age group. The
FDA (Food and Drug Administration) licensed a vaccine called Gardasil® for use
in girls and women ages 9 -26 years of age. The HPV Vaccine protects
against 4 strains of HPV, which cause approximately 70% of cervical cancers and
90% of genital warts. The vaccine is given as a series of three (3) shots over a
six-month period.4 It’s
most effective when given prior to becoming sexually active or exposed to the
four (4) strains of HPV covered by the vaccine.
While the HPV Vaccine has been
tested in young girls and women ages 9 -26, there may be side effects associated
with the vaccine. It’s really important that you talk with your health care
provider to determine the best approach for you or your daughter.
Is there a Cost for the HPV Vaccine?
The average cost for the HPV Vaccine itself is approximately $400.00 for the three (3) shot series. There are
also office visit costs, which may add another $100.00 - $200.00 to the total cost. Most health insurance
companies that pay for immunizations also pay for the HPV Vaccine. The Federal Vaccine for Children (VFC)
Program covers the cost of the HPV Vaccine. You should check with your health insurance provider and your
state health department regarding coverage and eligibility. In Iowa, call 1-800-831-6293 or (515) 281-7053 for
more information about the Vaccine for Children (VFC) Program.
Is there an HPV Vaccine for Men?
Yes. Gardasil® is the only human
papillomavirus (HPV)
vaccine indicated for males. Gardasil®
helps protect against four types of HPV. In boys and young men ages 9 - 26,
Gardasil®
helps protect against 90% of genital warts cases.
Gardasil® may not fully protect
everyone, nor will it prevent diseases caused by other HPV types or against
diseases not caused by HPV.
Click any of the links below for more information about HPV, the HPV Vaccine,
and Cervical Cancer
Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC)
Fact Sheets about HPV, the HPV Vaccine and Cervical Cancer
Genital HPV Fact Sheet
HPV and Men Fact Sheet
Cervical Cancer: Basic Facts on Screening and the Pap Test
HPV Vaccine Questions and Answers
CDC Recommendations on the Quadrivalent HPV Vaccine
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