HPV Vaccine Every Woman Should Know

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted viruses and is recognized as the primary cause of cervical cancer. Besides cervical cancer, HPV can also trigger cancers of the vagina, vulva, anus, penis, throat, and cause genital warts. Therefore, the HPV vaccine is considered one of the most effective preventive measures, recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and various health associations worldwide, including in Indonesia.

What is the HPV Vaccine?

The HPV vaccine for women is designed to prevent infections from the most dangerous types of HPV that are linked to cancer, particularly cervical cancer. There are several types of HPV vaccines commonly used:

1. Cervarix: Protects against HPV types 16 and 18, responsible for 70% of cervical cancer cases.
2. Gardasil 4 (Quadrivalent): Protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18 (including those that cause genital warts).
3. Gardasil 9 (Nonavalent): Protects against 9 HPV types that cause cervical, anal, vulvar, vaginal cancers, and genital warts.

Benefits of the HPV Vaccine

1. Effectively prevents up to 90% of cervical cancer cases if administered before HPV exposure.
2. Reduces the risk of other HPV-related cancers such as anal, throat, and genital cancers.
3. Prevents genital warts, which often cause discomfort and may require repeated medical treatment.
4. Provides long-term protection, typically lasting more than 10 years after completing the full vaccination schedule.

Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?

The vaccine for women is most effective when given before sexual activity begins, ideally between the ages of 9 and 14. However, it remains beneficial up to age 26 or even beyond, depending on a doctor’s recommendation.

In Indonesia, the government has gradually included the vaccine in the national immunization program since 2023, especially targeting girls in grade 5 and 6 of elementary school, free of charge through public health centers (Puskesmas). For teenagers and adults who have not received the vaccine, it is still available on a self-funded basis at hospitals, clinics, or selected health centers.

HPV Vaccine Schedule and Doses

1. Ages 9–14: 2 doses, administered 6–12 months apart.
2. Ages 15 and older: 3 doses, given at months 0, 1 (or 2), and 6.

Consulting a doctor is highly recommended to determine the appropriate type of vaccine and schedule according to age and health condition.

Is the HPV Vaccine Safe?

Based on extensive global research, the HPV vaccine is proven to be safe and effective. Possible side effects are generally mild, such as pain or redness at the injection site, mild fever, or fatigue. Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare.

HPV Vaccine Status in Indonesia

In Indonesia, the HPV vaccine for women is available at both public and private health facilities. The government provides this vaccine free of charge through the National Child Immunization Month (BIAN) program for elementary school-aged girls. However, for adult women or those outside the program’s target group, the HPV vaccine can be accessed privately at varying costs depending on the type of vaccine and the healthcare provider. The price of the HPV vaccine in Indonesia ranges from IDR 600,000 to IDR 2,800,000 per dose, depending on the type of vaccine and facility.

Conclusion

HPV vaccination is a crucial form of early protection for women to reduce the risk of cervical cancer and other diseases related to HPV infection. Although the vaccine does not replace the importance of early detection methods like Pap smears, a combination of vaccination and routine screening can significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in the future. For women who have not yet received the HPV vaccine, it is strongly advised to consult a doctor to obtain further information about the benefits, schedule, and appropriate vaccination procedures.

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