HPV (human papillomavirus) is an STI that may lead to cervical cancer and,in some cases, cancer of the penis, throat, vulva, mouth, anus and vagina. HPV also causes genital warts in men and women, but it is preventable.
The HPV vaccine is available and commonly administered to young girls, but research shows that HPV vaccination for boys is necessary and effective.
Risks of HPV
The human papillomavirus is highly infectious. It affects the skin and moist membranes in the mouth, throat, anus and cervix. Most cervical cancer cases result from HPV infection, and it is the fourth most common cancer affecting womenworldwide and the second most prevalent cancer in women between 15 – 44 years. Every year, over 527,000 new cervical cancer cases are diagnosed, and 99% are due to HPV infection.
Transmission of HPV through sexual activity like vaginal and anal sex, oral sex, skin-to-skin genital contact and other types of sex play is common. In most cases, HPV shows no symptoms, so many people go their life without knowing they have contracted the virus.
About 9 in 10 HPV cases go away without treatment after some years, but the virus may result in life-threatening conditions when it does not go, such as the following;
• Cancer of the tonsils, anus, throat, and tongue in men and women
• Penile cancer in men
• Vaginal, vulvar, and cervical cancer in women
• Genital warts in men and women
Why is HPV vaccination necessary?
Different research on HPV has found that getting the HPV vaccine is the best way to protect women and men from this infection that leads to cancer. In some countries, young boys are now part of the HPV vaccination program.
HPV vaccination provides boys protection against HPV-related cancer of the throat, mouth and anus. It also protects against genital warts, which is one of the most common STIs in the UK. HPV vaccination for boys also protects girls by reducing the rate of transmission.
Clinical trials of the HPV vaccine have shown that it is almost 100% effective in preventing genital warts and cervical cell changes that result in cancer. Data gathered over the past ten years from vaccination has not shown any limitation of the vaccine, but girls still need Pap smears to assess cervical cancer risk and preventive healthcare.
When do boys need HPV vaccine?
Research has shown that taking the HPV vaccine before any form of sexual activity increases its efficiency because there will be no risk of contracting HPV. However, early HPV vaccination does not encourage engaging in sexual activity from a young age.
Although young girls and boys from 9 years can get the HPV vaccine, it is routinely recommended for11 – 12-year-olds. If you did not take the HPV vaccine at a young age, you could still get it before turning 26.
How does the HPV vaccine work?
Cervarix is an HPV vaccine for girls, but Gardasil and Gardasil 9 are available for girls and boys. These vaccines can protect girls from different types of HPV. The vaccines were available in three doses taken over six months, but since 2016, the recommended dosage for those under 15 years reduced to two doses, with the second dose to be administered 6 – 12 months after the first.
However, a third dose is recommended for adolescents who had the first two doses less than five months apart. Young adults between 15 – 26 who have not received the vaccine also need three doses.
The side effect of the HPV vaccine
Generally, vaccines cause minor side effects, but some people experience no side effects. The most common side effect after HPV vaccination is a sore arm from the injection. Other side effects include low energy, joint pain, headache, fever, nausea, and muscle pain.
HPV vaccination is not suitable for people who have an allergic reaction to any component of the HPV vaccine.
Ensure your young boys get vaccinated against HPV to reduce their risk of HPV-related cancers and genital warts. Call 020 3475 1653 todayto schedule an appointment for a private HPV vaccine at Sexual Health Clinic in London.
About the Creator
Freya Jones
Freya Jones is a part-time blogger and full time consultant of Sexual Health. She is really passionate about sharing vital information on Sexual Health issues and treatment options through her interesting posts.
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