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HPV Vaccine
With more than 100 known varieties of the human papillomavirus, HPV, it may be beneficial for female patients to receive the HPV vaccine. Even if a patient has a specific type of HPV infection, the vaccine can still have an effect on preventing the patient from contracting other strains. With so many possible types of HPV infections available, there are a large variety of possible symptoms, which can include plantar warts on the patient’s feet or warts on the face and neck.
In some cases, certain forms of HPV can lead to forms of cervical cancer. While cancer is not a common result of HPV, one can never be too careful. Dr. Rodgers offers HPV vaccines as a treatment option. The HPV vaccine can not only provide protection against possible strains of HPV but can also prevent cases of cervical cancer if a patient receives it before contracting the virus.
The minor side effects of receiving the HPV vaccine can include temporary soreness, redness or swelling at the site of the injection. Some patients may also experience dizziness, fainting, headaches, nausea, vomiting or weakness may occur. These short-term side effects are worth the long-term benefits of the HPV vaccine.
The HPV Vaccine Process
The HPV vaccine has multiple benefits, which include:
- Preventing most cases of cervical cancer
- Preventing most cases of vaginal and vulvar cancer
- Preventing most cases of genital warts and anal cancer in both men and women
- Decreasing possibility of transmission, in theory, when boys receive the vaccine
It is important to note that an individual who already has a strain of HPV virus cannot treat it with the HPV vaccine. However, the HPV vaccine can offer protection against other strains of HPV. If a patient is interested in receiving the HPV vaccine for treatment, Dr. Rodgers can go over the specifics and determine if the vaccine is the right choice for the patient.
Dr. Rodgers will first identify the overall health of the patient. Dr. Rodgers cannot administer the HPV vaccine if the patient is even moderately ill. A patient who has any possible allergies to the contents of the vaccine needs to check with the doctor first. Once Dr. Rodgers determines if the patient is suitable to receive the vaccine, then she will begin the process. Receiving the HPV vaccine may take more than one visit and varies with the age of the patient.