HPV vaccine: Part 2

The one reason why Gardasil is not recommended for women over the age of 25 is that by this time it appears many women have already been exposed to HPV. However, there are studies that have documented safety of this vaccine in the older age group. At present, Gardasil is believed to be effective for at least 5 years after injection. Current research is trying to determine if a booster shot at the end of 5 years will extent protection from the vaccine.

All consumers should understand that getting the HPV vaccine does not eliminate the need for future doctor visits. Pap smears are highly recommended in all females when they become sexually active.

As far as side effects are concerned, both vaccines have proven to be quite safe. From the recent clinical trials, the most common side effects observed were redness and pain at the injection site. These transient side effects last for a few days.

Neither Gardasil nor Cervarix is recommended for pregnant women. Once injected with the HPV vaccine, more than 95-98 percent of women are protected from developing cervical cancer