What is human papillomavirus (HPV)?

Human papillomavirus, also known as HPV, is one of the most common viruses transmitted through sexual contact. There are more than 100 different types of HPV. Most do not cause any symptoms and are cleared by your body on their own. However, there are some types that can cause genital warts or, in more serious cases, lead to cancer. In particular, cancer of the cervix, penis, vulva, anus and throat can be caused by this virus. There are currently 12 different types associated with it, of these, HPV-16 and HPV-18 are seen in about 75% of cases.

Because there are so many HPV types, it is so common and only a very small percentage of people with these HPV types get cancer, there is no added value in testing to see if you have HPV. In women, a swab is sometimes taken from the uterus mouth and in men from the anus, to see if there is proliferation of cells caused by HPV, which may be a precursor to cancer. In women, we also call this "population screening. In men, this is only done at the doctor's office or specialist's office in case of symptoms.

At OneDayClinic, women can have a pap smear of the cervix to check for the presence of these cells and HPV-16 or HPV-18 after a telephone consultation.

How does the HPV vaccination protect you?

Sex with a condom prevents infection of the HPV. If you (sometimes) have sex without a condom, the HPV vaccination is an option for protection. The HPV vaccination provides protection against the types of the virus most commonly associated with cancer. Through this vaccination, your body makes antibodies against HPV, so you are better protected if you later come in contact with the virus. The vaccination usually consists of two or three shots, depending on your health.

The vaccination works best if you get it before you are sexually active. Still, older teens and adults can also benefit from the vaccine. Research shows that the vaccination no longer protects against the type you have already been in contact with, but still protects against the remaining types of HPV, even if you are already sexually active.

Who is the HPV vaccination for?

In the Netherlands, the HPV vaccination has been offered for several years to both boys and girls aged 10 and older. This is the cervarix vaccination. If you did not receive the vaccination earlier, you can still get it later in life. Adults who are at risk due to multiple bed partners, for example, may want to consider getting vaccinated after all.

Men who have sex with men may consider getting vaccinated with Gardasil-9, This vaccination protects against genital warts, anus cancer, cancer against mouth and pharynx, the vagina, labia and penis.

Interested in an HPV vaccination? At OneDayClinic, you can get an HPV vaccination daily and without waiting time.

Is the HPV vaccination safe?

Yes, the HPV vaccination has been extensively tested and found to be safe. As with other vaccinations, side effects may occur, such as mild pain or redness at the site of the puncture, headache and sometimes some fever. These side effects are usually mild and disappear within a few days. The benefits of protection against HPV-related diseases far outweigh the risk of side effects.

By getting vaccinated, you protect yourself and also reduce the risk of passing HPV to others. For a quick and reliable HPV vaccination, visit OneDayClinic.

More information? Check out Soa Aids Netherlands.