HPV Vaccine
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Stoneleigh Medical Group
Gastroenterology & Internal Medicine located in Brewster, NY & Jefferson Valley, NY
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) linked to certain types of cancer and warts. At Stoneleigh Medical Group, the expert-trained internal medicine specialists offer HPV vaccines for kids and adults to offer protection. To learn more, call one of the offices in Carmel, Brewster, Pawling, Yorktown Heights,
or Jefferson Valley, New York, or request an appointment online today.
HPV vaccine Q&A
What is the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is an effective vaccination that protects you from contracting human papillomavirus (HVP), a disease spread through sexual contact. In women, HPV can cause cervical, vaginal, or vulvar cancers. It can cause penis cancer in men and anus and throat cancers in both women and men. The HPV vaccine is helpful for disease prevention.
Who is a candidate for the HPV vaccine?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children ages 11-12 years old receive two doses of the HPV vaccine given 6-12 months apart. Children as young as 9 can receive the vaccine. Teenagers who begin the HPV vaccine on or after their 15th birthday should receive three doses over a 6-month period, according to the CDC guidelines.
The organization suggests that everyone through age 26 get the HPV vaccine, but it’s not encouraged for people over age 26 because these adults likely have already been exposed to the HPV virus. If you’re over age 26, talk with your Stoneleigh Medical Group provider to determine if it’s right for you.
They review your medical history and lifestyle habits, check your vital signs, complete a physical exam, and may order STD tests to determine which vaccines are best for you.
What are the benefits of the HPV vaccine?
The main benefit of receiving the HPV vaccine is a reduced chance of contracting HPV and developing cancers linked to this common STD. HPV can also cause genital warts, which the HPV vaccine can protect you from.
What should I expect during an HPV vaccination?
The HPV vaccine is an injection in your arm. There’s no special preparation needed before you get the shot. While it often causes a pinching sensation, this feeling lasts just a second, and there’s no downtime afterward.
Are there any side effects associated with the HPV vaccine?
There are some potential side effects to be aware of after receiving the HPV vaccine. Examples include redness, pain, or swelling at the injection site. You might also feel dizzy, have a headache, or become nauseous — but these side effects are temporary.
Your provider can explain the benefits versus the risks associated with the HPV vaccine to help you make an informed decision about your or your child’s medical care.
To learn more about the HPV vaccine and find out if it’s right for you or your child, call the Stoneleigh Medical Group office or use the online booking feature today.
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