Debunking HPV Vaccination Myths

Written by Poonyaweera (Pim) Temcharoen, UNAIDS - Bangkok, Thailand 

If there was a cancer prevention vaccine, wouldn't you be interested? 

Although vaccines have sparked heated debates in recent years, none have been more controversial than the vaccination for cervical cancer caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) - the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI). HPV is a widespread virus that can cause several types of cancer, including cervical, anal, and throat cancers. It consists of more than 150 types of viruses, spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact. 

The HPV vaccine may be a game-changer in preventing various cancers, but unfortunately, myths and misconceptions have made people become hesitant in receiving them. Despite the vaccine being safe and recommended by the CDC for both girls and boys (from around ages 11-12), many still have their doubts. 

We strive to empower you with the knowledge to make informed health decisions. So, let's clear up some of these misconceptions: 

Myth 1: The HPV Vaccine is Unsafe

Fact: The HPV vaccine has been extensively studied and proven safe, having gone through rigorous clinical testing and ongoing safety monitoring. Similar to most vaccines, side effects are mild, and include symptoms such as soreness, fever, or headache; serious side effects are infrequent.

Contrary to claims that the vaccine is unsafe, millions have been vaccinated with minimal risk - primarily mild side effects - leading key health organizations (i.e., the CDC and WHO) to endorse its safety and efficacy. According to the CDC, there has been no evidence to suggest HPV vaccination can lead to death, confirming its safety for usage (CDC: source).

Myth 2: The HPV Vaccine Encourages Promiscuity

Fact: There is no evidence that the HPV vaccine encourages promiscuity or changes sexual behavior. Studies have shown that vaccination does not affect the age at which individuals start having sex or how many sexual partners they have (Harvard: source). The primary purpose of the HPV vaccine is to protect against cancer-causing viruses, not to influence personal behavior.

Furthermore, a study funded by Kaiser Permanente and Emory University found no link between the HPV vaccine and increased sexual activity, pregnancy tests, STD diagnosis, or contraceptive counseling (Emory: source). As Janice K. Hillman, MD, a physician at Penn Medicine explains, the vaccine prevents the spread of cancers, not just STIs, and “getting the vaccine actually encourages [us] to be safer and to take more precautions if [we] do have sex” (Penn Medicine: source). 

Myth 3: The HPV Vaccine is Only Necessary for Those Who Are Sexually Active

Fact: The HPV vaccine is the most effective when given before any exposure to the virus, which is why it is recommended for preteens. The vaccine is 95% effective in preventing cervical pre-cancers caused by high-risk HPV and getting vaccinated at a young age can protect individuals before they become sexually active. However, those who are already sexually active can benefit from this vaccine as well, as it protects them against strains of HPV not yet encountered.

Myth 4: The HPV Vaccine is ineffective

Fact: While it is true that you can still get HPV with the vaccine, the HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections from HPV types the vaccine targets - the most common high-risk HPV strains. Studies have shown that the vaccine is effective in protecting preteens from approximately 90% of HPV-related genital warts and 70% of cervical cancer (Penn Medicine: source). 

There are over 200 strains of HPV, but only two types account for over 70% of all cervical cancer cases worldwide (National Cancer Institute: source). Although there are currently only three approved cervical cancer vaccines that protect against these two high-risk strains, these vaccines have over 95% effectiveness. 

Please note that strains not covered by these vaccines could still lead to cervical cancer, so it is very important to continue routine screening with pap smears, HPV testing, and visual inspection (or colposcopy) by your gynecologist.

In Conclusion…

Dispelling myths about the HPV vaccine is essential for public health. The HPV vaccine is a safe, effective, and critical method in preventing cancers caused by HPV. By understanding the facts and rejecting misconceptions, you can make informed decisions to protect your health and the health of your love ones. 

If you have any further concerns or questions about the HPV vaccine, please speak with your healthcare provider for accurate information and tailored guidance.