What is it?
A new vaccine (injection), for all girls in the UK aged 12-13 (year 8) from September 2008. Girls aged between 14 and 18 years who have not had the opportunity to get the vaccine in year 8 will be offered the vaccine over the next 2–3 years.
Why do I need it?
It will help protect you from getting cancer of the cervix when you are older. About 3000 women get this every year, in the UK.
Like Jade Goody?
Yes but unfortunately Jade has got cancer of the cervix now.
What causes cancer?
Cancer of the cervix is caused by a virus, called HPV.
HPV is sexually transmitted and is very common. By the time we are 50, about 80% of us will have HPV.
But 80% of women don't get this cancer, do they?
No. That's because there are about 100 types of HPV. Most cause no trouble at all, only a few cause cancer.
So how does the vaccine help?
Once vaccinated, we are immune from the two most serious types of HPV. These two types cause 70% of all cancer of the cervix. So we are much less likely to get cancer when we're older.
How do I get the vaccine? I don't want a needle in my bum...
The injection goes in your upper arm. It will probably be done at school. You need three injections, spaced out over six months, to be fully protected.
I'm over 13, what about me?
At some point during the next three years (from 2008), all girls aged 13-18 will also be offered the vaccine. The vaccine is proven to be effective in women up to 25 and studies in women aged 25-55 are still happening.
So will it stop me getting cancer?
No. It just makes cancer of the cervix less likely. We still need to have smear tests when we're older, as it is not complete protection against cancer of the cervix. And other cancers are not affected at all.
Will the vaccine stop any other STIs?
Nope, it won't. Not a single one. Safe sex is still a must.
What about warts?
Good question. Some types of HPV cause genital warts. These HPV types do not cause cancer. Unfortunately, the vaccine won't protect you from these. So warts are still possible.
Can't I just always use condoms and be safe that way?
Condoms are a great idea. They are the best protection we have against STIs. But HPV can be passed on even if we use a condom. So the vaccine is still necessary.
Can I say no if I don't want the injection?
Yes, it is not compulsory. Your parents must sign a consent form so discuss it with them.
Will it stop me getting pregnant?
No. It won't affect your chances of getting pregnant at all. So you will still need to use contraception until you want a baby.
My friend says it makes hairs grow inside your body...
Blimey! Your friend has been watching too many dodgy movies. No, it will not do this. Nor will it make you put on weight. It may be a bit sore, at the place where the needle went in. Sometimes people get a fever after the injection or feel sick. But most of us get no side effects at all.
Further help and advice
NHS: More on HPV
Sign up for a text reminder to let you know when your next HPV injection is due
Written by Dr Melissa Sayer
Last updated December 2008
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Shelly, 17
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Francesca, 18, 18
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-, 14
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******, 14
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