Myths about the HPV vaccine dispelled

Posted in HPV vaccine, cervical cancer; Posted 5 months ago by Andreas Obermair

A large majority of cervical cancer (more than 95%) is due to the human papillomavirus (HPV). The HPV vaccine administered before becoming sexually active protects against the main types of HPV that cause most cervical cancers. 

Here, I dispel myths and misconceptions about the HPV vaccine that have circulated over the years.

Myth: The HPV vaccine is only for females

Fact: This is a myth because HPV affects both males and females. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both females and males. It helps protect against HPV-related cancers and diseases in both genders.

Myth: The vaccine is not safe

Fact: Extensive research and clinical trials for decades have demonstrated that the HPV vaccine is safe and effective. It has been approved by regulatory agencies such as the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), FDA (in the US) and endorsed by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Like any type of vaccine, some mild side effects are possible, such as pain at the injection site or fever, but serious adverse events after vaccination are extremely rare.

Myth: The HPV vaccine is only for young adults or teenagers.

Fact: While the vaccine is most effective when administered at a younger age (typically between 9 and 26 years old), it can still be beneficial for adults who have not been previously vaccinated and are at risk of HPV infection. It’s most effective in younger people as they create more antibodies to the administered vaccine than people in their late teenage years or older.

Myth: Getting the HPV vaccine means you do not need cervical cancer screening.

Fact: The HPV vaccine does not replace the need for regular cervical cancer screening. The vaccine helps prevent 90% of all HPV infections and some associated cancers, but it does not protect against all strains of HPV or other factors that can lead to cervical cancer. Women should continue to have regular cervical cancer screening between the ages of 25-74 years as per the Australian screening guidelines.

Myth: You need multiple doses of the HPV vaccine.

Fact: This has recently changed. In February 2023, Australia changed its schedule for the HPV vaccine on the National Immunisation Program from two doses of vaccine to a single dose for most people. A single dose of HPV vaccine is administered for people aged 9 to 25 years unless they are immunocompromised. Three doses of HPV vaccine are required for some immunocompromised people, with an interval of two months between dose one and two, and four months between dose two and three.

Myth: HPV vaccination can lead to infertility

Fact: There is no evidence the HPV vaccine leads to infertility. The HPV vaccine can in fact help protect fertility by preventing cervical cancer as the cervical cancer treatments can lead to infertility.

Summary and how to get vaccinated

The HPV vaccine is valuable in preventing HPV-related cancers and diseases. It’s safe, effective, and protects against the most common strains of HPV. It’s exciting to think that one day  cervical cancer could be a “rare cancer”. This is only possible with the combination of high vaccination and cervical cancer screening rates, which in turn would see lower cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates.

Most Australians who are eligible for the HPV vaccine receive it through free school-based vaccination programs. If individuals have missed out, Australians aged 12 to 25 can catch up for free at a doctors, pharmacy or local immunisation clinic. For people 26 or older, or those who do not have a Medicare card, there may be a fee involved. Reach out to your GP in the first instance for more information.

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