HPV Vaccine to Prevent Cervical Cancer

What is GARDASIL?
GARDASIL is the only cervical cancer vaccine that helps protect against 4 types of human papillomavirus (HPV): 2 types that cause 70% of cervical cancer cases, and 2 more types that cause 90% of genital warts cases. The duration of protection of GARDASIL has not been established.

Who should get vaccinated with Gardasil?
GARDASIL is for girls and young women ages 9 to 26. Vaccination is recommended for girls as young as 9 because GARDASIL works when given before there is any contact with HPV Types 6, 11, 16, and 18.

If you're already sexually active, you may still benefit from GARDASIL. That's because even if you have been exposed to HPV, it's unlikely that you have been exposed to all the types of the virus covered by this cervical cancer vaccine. That means GARDASIL could still help guard you against HPV types you haven't been exposed to.

3 doses for protection
GARDASIL is given in 3 doses over 6 months.

If I get vaccinated, do I still need to get Pap tests?
Yes. Vaccination with GARDASIL does not take the place of Pap testsPap test
A Pap test, also known as a Pap smear, is part of the gynecological exam and helps detect abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix before they have a chance to become precancers or cervical cancer.

You should always follow your doctor or healthcare professional's advice on getting Pap tests. Pap tests have been proven to help save lives. A Pap test looks for abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix before they have the chance to become precancers or cervical cancer.

And since GARDASIL does not protect against all types of HPV, Pap tests will still be an important part of taking control of your health—and taking care of yourself.

If I'm already sexually active, is it too late for me to get vaccinated?
No, it's not. Only your doctor or healthcare professional can tell you if GARDASIL is right for you. But, if you're already sexually active, you may still benefit from GARDASIL. That's because even if you have been exposed to HPV, it's unlikely that you have been exposed to all 4 types of the virus covered by GARDASIL.

Getting vaccinated now could help guard you against HPV Types 6, 11, 16, and 18 if you are exposed to them in the future.

Why is GARDASIL only for girls and young women ages 9 to 26?GARDASIL is only for girls and young women ages 9 to 26 because the clinical trials for GARDASIL included females within this age group. GARDASIL was initially studied in this age group because the majority of women who have HPV are exposed to it in their teens and 20s.

GARDASIL works best when given before there is any contact with HPV Types 6, 11, 16, and 18. That's why GARDASIL is recommended for girls as young as 9 years old.

If you are older than 26, you may still be at risk for HPV, including Types 6, 11, 16, and 18. So, be sure to continue getting Pap tests as often as your doctor or healthcare professional recommends.

What if I'm late getting my second or third dose of GARDASIL?
Ideally, your vaccination schedule should be:

First dose: at a date you and your doctor or healthcare professional choose.
Second dose: 2 months after the first dose.
Third dose: 6 months after the first dose.
If you're a few days late getting your second or third dose of GARDASIL, don't panic. If you miss a dose, your doctor or healthcare professional will decide when to give the missed dose.

If HPV causes cervical cancer, why does GARDASIL only protect against 70% of cervical cancer cases?
Here's why: Cervical cancerCervical cancer
Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix. Cervical cancer is a serious condition that can be life threatening and it can be caused by about 10 to 30 types of HPV, Genital HPV (human papillomavirus)
About 30 types of HPV are known as genital HPV since they affect the genital area.
GARDASIL helps guard against 2 of these types—HPV Types 16 and 18. These 2 types of HPV cause 70% of cervical cancer cases.

Why can't men get vaccinated with GARDASIL?
While men are at risk for HPV Types 6, 11, 16, and 18, GARDASIL is not approved for use in men.