The HPV vaccine is a vaccine developed to prevent infections with the "Human Papilloma Virus". HPV is a common sexually transmitted virus and some types can cause cervical cancer, genital warts, and other types of cancer. The HPV vaccine is administered to reduce the risk of cancer and warts by providing immunity against certain types of this virus. It is usually recommended at a young age, before sexual activity begins, and is administered in several doses.
Are there any side effects of the HPV vaccine?
Yes, there can be side effects from the HPV vaccine, but they are usually mild and temporary. The most common side effects include:
Reactions at the vaccination site: Redness, swelling, pain or itching.
General side effects:
Headache
slight fever
Fatigue
Nausea
Other rare side effects:
Dizziness
Fainting (especially in young people)
muscle or joint pain
Serious side effects are extremely rare, but as with any vaccine, there is a risk of serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). Therefore, it is recommended that you be monitored for a short period of time after vaccination. In general, the HPV vaccine is considered safe and the risk of serious health problems is very low. Health authorities say that the benefits of the vaccine far outweigh any potential risks.
Does the HPV vaccine hurt?
The HPV vaccine can usually cause a slight sting, but this sting is short-lived and minimal. Since the vaccine is administered intramuscularly (usually in the upper arm), a slight sting or burning sensation may occur at the time the needle is inserted. In addition, slight tenderness, redness, or swelling may be felt in the area where the shot was given for a few hours or a few days. Each person's pain threshold is different, so some people feel almost no pain, while others may feel a little more discomfort. In general, the pain felt after the HPV vaccine is moderate compared to many other vaccines and passes quickly.
Can a family doctor administer the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine can be administered by family physicians in Turkey. You can visit your family physician by going to a family health center and get information about the HPV vaccine. Your family physician will inform you about the timing of the vaccine, its dosages, and its side effects. The HPV vaccine is generally recommended for certain age groups and is especially recommended before sexual activity begins. However, since it can also provide protection at older ages, you can talk to your family physician about this and find out if you are suitable. The vaccine is usually administered in 2 or 3 doses, with a certain amount of time between each dose.
Can HPV vaccine be given to virgins?
Yes, the HPV vaccine can be administered to virgins and is even recommended before sexual activity begins. Because HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a sexually transmitted virus, administering the vaccine before sexual contact provides the most effective protection.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health authorities recommend that HPV vaccination be given to children and adolescents between the ages of 9 and 14, that is, before they start sexual activity. However, the vaccine may also be useful after sexual activity has started, because it protects against different types of HPV. In conclusion, the HPV vaccine is safe and effective in virgins and significantly reduces the risk of infection.
Can the HPV Vaccine be stored in the refrigerator?
Yes, the HPV vaccine should be stored in the refrigerator. In order for the vaccine to maintain its effectiveness, it must be stored at certain temperature conditions. The HPV vaccine should be stored between 2°C and 8°C, which is why it is stored in the refrigerator. However, the vaccine should not be frozen; if it is frozen, it can lose its effectiveness and become unusable. The vaccine is stored in the refrigerator until it reaches the health institution and is administered. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the vaccine is stored in the right conditions.
Can HPV vaccine be administered after sexual intercourse?
Yes, the HPV vaccine can be administered after sexual intercourse. Although the vaccine provides the most effective protection before sexual activity begins, it is also beneficial for individuals who have begun sexual activity. This is because there are many different types of HPV and the vaccine protects against more than one type of HPV. For example, even if a person has already been exposed to one type of HPV, the vaccine can protect against other types of HPV and reduce the risk of developing HPV-related diseases in the future. Therefore, it is still important to receive the HPV vaccine even after sexual activity has begun. Since the vaccine protects against HPV-related cervical cancer, genital warts, and other types of cancer, individuals who have begun sexual activity can also reduce these risks by getting vaccinated.
Is HPV vaccine given to children?
Yes, the HPV vaccine can be given to children and is even specifically recommended by many health authorities. The World Health Organization (WHO) and many national health authorities recommend that the HPV vaccine be given to children between the ages of 9 and 14, that is, before they start sexual activity. The immune system generally responds more strongly in this age group, so the vaccine is more effective. The HPV vaccine can be given to girls and boys. The vaccine protects against future HPV infections and helps prevent health problems such as cervical cancer, genital warts, and other types of cancer caused by HPV. By vaccinating children against this sexually transmitted virus at a young age, the aim is to minimize the risks they may face in the future. In some countries, the HPV vaccine is routinely given to children in schools or health centers as part of national vaccination programs.
Does the government cover the HPV vaccine?
In Turkey, HPV vaccination is not currently covered by the Social Security Institution (SGK) and is offered for a fee. However, some local governments have initiated free HPV vaccination practices, especially for individuals suffering from socioeconomic deprivation. For example, the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) has initiated free HPV vaccination practices for individuals between the ages of 9-26. Those who want to benefit from this service can apply to designated medical centers and get vaccinated. 2024
Yes, there can be side effects from the HPV vaccine, but they are usually mild and temporary. The most common side effects include:
Does the government cover the HPV vaccine?
