Who Needs The Cervical Cancer Vaccine?

The Cervical Cancer Vaccine and You
The cervical cancer vaccine "Gardasil"® is proven effective against four major sub-types of the HPV virus, 6 - 11 and 16 - 18. These virus types cause cervical cell abnormalities, a condition known as cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia or CIN, and also genital warts.

The HPV vaccine is effective in protecting women from these four sub-types of virus, and from the potential development of CIN into cervical cancer. The Gardasil® vaccine also protects against abnormal and precancerous cervical, vaginal and vulval lesions. It also reduces the incidence of genital warts in both men and women by up to 90%.

Am I at Risk from HPV?
The HPV virus exists in over 100 different types, but only a handful cause CIN, a possible precursor to cancer of the cervix. Any sexually active woman or man can both catch and pass on the virus during sexual intercourse.

In most cases, the virus is soon eradicated by the body's own immune system. However, where HPV virus sub-types 16 or 18 are persistently present, high grade CIN can develop. (HPV sub-types 6 and 11 only cause low grade CIN, which does not develop into cancer.)

Simply by the law of averages, a person with multiple sexual partners is more at risk of catching these particular HPV strains, but equally a person with just one sexual partner may develop CIN.

Who Needs the Cervical Cancer Vaccine?
Like all vaccinations, the cervical cancer vaccine is most effective as prevention before exposure. The Cervical Vaccine Clinic recommends that girls should have the Gardasil® vaccine administered between the ages of 9 to 15, to build immunity for their adult lives.

Women aged 16 to 26 can benefit greatly from the vaccine, in conjunction with a regular smear test or Thin Prep test, in reducing their risk of CIN and cervical cancer.

Why should Children have the Cervical Cancer Vaccine?
The cervical cancer vaccine should be considered as prevention against possible infection. Immunisation against the HPV virus in early teens is a responsible and sensible approach to the future sexual health of your children.

How Can I get the Cervical Cancer Vaccine?
Click for full details of the vaccination programme offered by The Cervical Vaccine Clinic or click here to book an appointment