Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)

 

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus. The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 20 million people in the United States
are infected with HPV. There are many different types of HPV. Some cause no harm;
others can cause diseases of the genital area. For most people, the virus goes away on
its’ own. When the virus does not go away, it can develop into cervical cancer,
precancerous lesions, or genital warts, depending on the HPV type.

HPV affects both women and men.

– Anyone who has any kind of sexual activity involving genital contact with an infected
person can get HPV—intercourse isn’t necessary.
– Many people who have HPV may not show any signs or symptoms, so they can pass
the virus on without even knowing it.

HPV is easily transmitted. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), 20 million people in the United States already have HPV. HPV Types 6, 11, 16,
and 18 accounts for the majority of HPV-related clinical diseases.

HPV Types 16 and 18 cause 70% of cervical cancer cases, and HPV Types 6 and 11
cause 90% of genital warts cases.

GARDASIL ® is given as 3 injections over 6 months, and only a doctor or healthcare
professional can decide if GARDASIL is right for you or your daughter.

GARDASIL ® is for girls and women ages 9 to 26. GARDASIL works when given before
you have any contact with HPV Types 6, 11, 16, and 18.

If you’ve already been infected with HPV, you may still benefit from GARDASIL because
it is unlikely that you have been infected with all 4 types of the virus covered by the
vaccine. Your doctor or healthcare professional can help you understand more.

At Women’s Health of Mansfield we offer the Gardasil ® injection to our patients
that are between the ages of 9 to 26. Call our office to make an appointment for
this injection.

Please visit Gardasil’s ® website for more information.

http://www.gardasil.com/index.html