Services
PROCEDURES
HUMAN PAPILLOMA VACCINE
What is the human papillomavirus?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection which is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. There are different varieties of HPV which may be passed through sexual intercourse and may affect your genitals, mouth or throat.
What are the related symptoms of HPV?
In most cases, HPV doesn't cause health problems or any noticeable symptoms. If it causes noticeable symptoms, you may develop genital warts. Genital warts develop as small bumps or stem-like protrusions. These warts may develop in the vulva, cervix, scrotum, anus, groin and the throat.
HPV may also cause cancer. Cancers that may occur due to HPV include cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus and oropharynx.
To prevent the development of human papillomavirus, Dr Vatharajh will recommend an HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine helps protect you from developing certain types of HPV that lead to genital warts or cancer.
When is an HPV vaccine recommended?
An HPV vaccine is recommended for people who are 9 – 45 years old. For children who are 11 – 12 years old, the HPV vaccine helps protect them years before they become sexually active.
The vaccine is administered in two doses that are 6 – 12 months apart. Catch-up vaccines may be administered for males up to 21 years and females up to 26 years, who did not receive the vaccine at a young age. After vaccination, you may experience dizziness, fainting, headaches, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. The injection area may be swollen, red and sore.
HPV vaccine doesn't treat an HPV infection if you already have it; however, it may help protect you from developing other types of HPV. Seek medical attention if you experience any HPV symptoms.
Dr Rochelle Vatharajh is a family-friendly Gynaecologist and Obstetrician
based at Netcare Parklands Hospital in Durban.
