Vaccinations aren’t just for kids. When it comes to women’s health, immunizations are another tool that helps protect us against preventable diseases like Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Hepatitis B. By keeping up with your vaccine recommendations, you’re not only taking steps to keep yourself healthy right now, you’re also taking steps to keep yourself healthy in the future. The following list of important vaccinations for all women and why they matter.
The HPV Vaccine: Protection Against Cervical Cancer
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common infection that is linked to several cancers, including most cases of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer was once one of the most common causes of cancer deaths for women in the United States. Still, in recent years, the number has dropped significantly with increased use of pap smears and greater awareness of the condition. The HPV vaccine also plays a role in this decline.
Apart from cervical cancer, the HPV vaccine also protects against other cancers caused by HPV, such as cancer of the vagina, vulva, anus, mouth, throat, head and neck. So, the vaccine, on its own, can provide a substantial amount of protection against common and lesser-known cancers.
The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and can be given to those 9-45 years old. The vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines.
Many women, from 9-45 years old, would benefit from the use of this vaccine. Therefore, if you have not yet received it, speak to your doctor to determine how it can help.
