How Effective Is the HPV Vaccine Against Cervical Cancer?
The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing the HPV infections that cause most cervical cancers, especially when given in early adolescence before any exposure.
In this article 6 sections
The HPV vaccine is a highly effective way to help prevent cancer of the cervix (cervical cancer), especially when it is given before any exposure to the HPV virus, that is, in early adolescence. However, the vaccine does not protect against every type of HPV and does not treat an existing infection, so regular screening is still needed after vaccination. In the video, Dr Sharmin Afroz briefly explains this topic. Note that in everyday Bangla, ‘cancer of the womb’ is often used to mean cancer of the cervix; this vaccine is mainly for preventing cervical cancer.
01What is HPV and how is it linked to cancer?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus, spread mainly through sexual contact. In most people the infection causes no symptoms and clears on its own within a while. But if infection with certain high-risk HPV types persists for years, the cells of the cervix can slowly change and eventually become cancerous. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by this long-lasting HPV infection. Because these changes usually take many years, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers.
02How effective is the vaccine?
The HPV vaccine protects against the HPV types responsible for most cervical cancers. In countries with large-scale vaccination programmes, there is clear evidence of substantial falls in HPV infection, pre-cancerous changes of the cervix and cervical cancer. However, keep in mind that:
- The vaccine works best when given before exposure to the virus.
- It does not protect against every HPV type.
- It does not cure an infection or cell changes that are already present.
03What is the best age for vaccination?
The World Health Organization (WHO) mainly recommends vaccinating girls aged 9 to 14, because the immune response is strong at this age and exposure to the virus has usually not yet happened. Bangladesh has also introduced a government programme to vaccinate adolescent girls against HPV. Ask the vaccination programme or your doctor how many doses are needed for your age.
Young women and adults who were not vaccinated as teenagers may still benefit in many cases, although protection may be lower. If you are married, discuss with your doctor whether vaccination is still worthwhile for you. The vaccine is not usually given during pregnancy, but it can be given after the baby is born.
04Safety and side effects
Reviews by the World Health Organization and other international expert bodies consider the HPV vaccine safe. Common side effects are pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, mild fever or headache, which usually settle within a day or two. It is a good idea to sit and rest for a short while after the injection, as some teenagers can feel faint from anxiety about needles.
05Why screening is still needed after vaccination
Because the vaccine does not cover all high-risk HPV types, regular cervical screening from the recommended age is still essential. VIA, a Pap smear or an HPV test can pick up cell changes before cancer develops, when treatment is simple. Vaccination and screening together give the best protection.
When to see a doctor
- To find out the vaccination schedule for your teenage daughter
- When you reach screening age, or if you have not been screened for a long time
- If you have bleeding after sex, between periods or after the menopause
- If you have a foul-smelling or blood-stained discharge, or ongoing lower tummy pain
- Go to hospital promptly for heavy bleeding
Q & A
Frequently asked questions
In many cases yes, although protection is best if given before exposure to the virus. Discuss with your doctor whether it is suitable for you.
Yes. The vaccine does not protect against all high-risk HPV types, so regular screening from the recommended age must continue.
It is not usually given during pregnancy. It can be given after the baby is born, on your doctor's advice.
Yes. Reviews by international expert bodies consider it safe, and common side effects are mild and short-lived.
Article & video by
Dr. Sharmin Afroz
Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Infertility Specialist and Laparoscopic Surgeon
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Anwer Khan Modern Medical College & Hospital.
