HPV Vaccine

At Nova Women's Health in North Reading, MA, we offer HPV vaccinations to protect against human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. Burlington OBGYN Associates in Burlington, Massachusetts, provides HPV vaccines for children starting from age nine and adults up to age 45 who would benefit from immunization. Call Nova Women's Health today to schedule an HPV vaccination or use our convenient online booking feature.

What is the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine offered at Burlington OBGYN Associates protects against human papillomavirus (HPV), a common STD that can lead to cervical cancer and other related diseases. By preventing HPV infection, the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer later in life. It also protects against:

• Vaginal cancer
• Vulvar cancer
• Genital warts
• Anal cancers
• Mouth and throat cancers
• Head and neck cancers

When should I have an HPV vaccination?
The CDC recommends HPV vaccination for all girls and boys aged 11 to 12, although it can be administered starting at age nine if necessary. Ideally, individuals should receive the vaccine before their first sexual contact, when they are less likely to have been exposed to HPV.
HPV vaccine response is most effective in children compared to adults, and it may not be as effective if you have already been exposed to HPV. The CDC advises:

• Children aged 11-12 should receive two doses of the HPV vaccine, with the second dose administered at least six months after the first.
• Children aged 9-10 and adolescents aged 13-14 can also receive the vaccine on a two-dose schedule.
• Older teens and young adults aged 15-26 should receive three doses of the vaccine.

The FDA has approved the HPV vaccine for individuals up to age 45. If you are between ages 27 and 45, our providers can determine if HPV vaccination is beneficial for you.
Is it worth getting the HPV vaccine if I’m sexually active?
Yes, getting the HPV vaccine is still beneficial if you are sexually active, as it can protect against HPV strains you have not been exposed to. However, it does not treat existing HPV infections.

The HPV vaccine is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals who are moderately or severely ill. Inform your gynecologist if you have severe allergies to yeast or latex or have experienced a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the HPV vaccine.

Contact Nova Women’s Health to arrange an HPV vaccination consultation or book an appointment online today.