HPV stands for Human Papilloma Virus. This virus causes a chronic long standing infection in the cervix (the lower part of uterus), which after many years can get converted into cancer of the cervix. HPV vaccine protects and provides immunity against this virus. This will prevent the growth of this virus inside your cervix/ uterus and hence protects you from developing cancer of the cervix later in life.

WHO ALL CAN TAKE HPV VACCINE?

All females between the age group of 9-45 years can take HPV vaccine.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF HPV VACCINE AVAILABLE?

At present, 2 types of HPV vaccine are available. First is Bivalent, which provides protection against 2 strains of HPvirus, which are cancer causing. The name of this vaccine is CERVARIX. The 2nd is Quadrivalent, which provides protection against 4 strains of HPVirus. The name of this vaccine is GARDASIL.

WHAT IS THE DOSAGE SCHEDULE OF HPV VACCINE?

There are 3 doses of HPV vaccine. Cervarix is taken at gap of 0,1 and 6 months and Gardasil is taken at gap of 0,2 and 6 months. However in children 9-14 years of age, only 2 doses are recommended, i.e. 0 and 6 months for both the vaccines.

SHOULD YOU TAKE HPV VACCINE?

YES. This is the only vaccine which provides protection against CANCER!!!. Every year many women die due to cancer of cervix. And you can prevent it from happening to you through HPV vaccine.