Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Vaccinations
What is Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)?
The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a common virus that is transmitted
through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. The virus consists
of more than 100 different strains, of which 13 are cancer- causing.
These are classified as high-risk strains.
The majority of people who have engaged in sexual activity
would have contracted HPV. Most times, the infection can be
spontaneously cleared, but in some cases, the HPV infection
persists, and can cause disease – these include cervical,
vaginal, penile and anal cancer, and genital warts.
(More information about Cervical Cancer)
How do I know if I have HPV?
Most people with HPV display no obvious symptoms, which is why it is difficult to
tell if you or your partner are infected with it. As HPV can evolve into cervical
cancer over time, some women discover that they have the infection through an
abnormal Pap Smear result, or in rare cases, when they display late stage
symptoms of cervical cancer.
You can opt to test for HPV - this is available for women via
a cervical swab, and can be done at the same time as your routine
Pap test. HPV testing is now routinely recommended for females above
the age of 30
Pap Smear and HPV Testing [Photo credit: Mayo Clinic]
How do I protect myself against HPV?
An important strategy in protecting yourself is to get vaccinated against HPV as
early as possible. You can also further protect yourself by minimizing sexual
partners, and practicing safe sex.
What is the HPV Vaccination?
The HPV vaccination is given to prevent infection with the
cancer-causing (high-risk) strains of HPV. In particular, this is
used to protect women against cervical cancer. Some formulations of
the vaccine also protect you against the strains that cause genital warts.
Speak to your doctor about the different vaccine options available to you.
Depending on your age, you will need either 2 or 3 doses of the vaccination before
you are fully protected.
Who should get vaccinated for HPV?
The vaccine is most effective if administered when you are between 9
and 26 years old. However, if you are above 26 years old, the vaccine
can still confer some benefit – have a discussion with your doctor about
your HPV risk and the benefits of HPV vaccination for you.
Can I use Medisave to pay for vaccinations?
If you are between 9 and 26 years old, you are eligible to use $500
from your Medisave account to pay for HPV vaccinations. For individuals without
a Medisave account or insufficient balance, your immediate family members
can use their Medisave funds to help cover the cost.
Do I still need to do Pap Smear tests after vaccination?
Yes, you will still need to continue to undergo regular Pap Smears and
HPV tests even after you have completed your full course of vaccinations.
HPV vaccinations are not a substitute for regular screening, so it is
essential to continue your regular checks to fully protect yourself
against cervical cancer.
Read more about pap smears and cervical cancer here
If you are keen to learn more about HPV testing and vaccinations,
contact our Advanced Medicine Medical Centre at 6708 7888 for an
appointment! Our centre is open at 1 Biopolis Drive, Amnios #01-02 S138622.