Myths about the HPV vaccination: Uncovering the misconceptionsMyth 1: HPV vaccination in India is unsafeFact:Myth 2: HPV vaccination can result in infertilityFact:Myth 3: HPV vaccination cannot prevent cervical cancerFactFor most people, HPV clears on its ownFAQsIs there an age limit for receiving the HPV vaccination?
Can I get the HPV vaccination if I already have HPV?
Let's look at three myths regarding the HPV vaccination below, along with the facts that address them:HPV vaccination generally has a good safety profile.
Just like any other vaccination, the HPV vaccination can cause some mild and temporary side effects, such as discomfort or fever.
Even if you already have one type of HPV, the HPV vaccination can still protect you against other HPV types which you may not have been infected with.
What is HPV?
Causes
Why is HPV vaccination important in India?
Myths about the HPV vaccination: Uncovering the misconceptions
Myth 1: HPV vaccination in India is unsafe
Fact:
Myth 2: HPV vaccination can result in infertility
Fact:
Myth 3: HPV vaccination cannot prevent cervical cancer
Fact
For most people, HPV clears on its own
FAQs
Is there an age limit for receiving the HPV vaccination?
Who cannot receive the HPV vaccination?
Can I get the HPV vaccination if I already have HPV?
NOTE:
Reference:
National Cancer Institute, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine, https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/infectious-agents/hpv-vaccine-fact-sheet Bruni L, Albero G, Serrano B, et al. ICO/IARC Information Centre on HPV and Cancer (HPV Information Centre). Human Papillomavirus and Related Diseases in India. Summary Report 22 October 2023. WHO, Vaccines and immunization, https://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization/#tab=tab_1
Disclaimer: The views/suggestions/opinions expressed in the article are the sole responsibility of the experts and the brand concerned. This should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your treating physician for more details. This article has been produced on behalf of MSD Pharma by Times Internet’s Content Collectives team.
There are more than 200 types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common viral infection that can spread during sexual intercourse. One of the most common cancers in women in India is cervical cancer, which is caused by high-risk types such as HPV-16 and HPV-18. According to GLOBOCAN 2023, HPV is the main cause of around 1.2 lakh new instances of cervical cancer diagnosed in India each year. Since it can help protect against some of the HPV types that cause cervical cancer, HPV vaccination is one of the important tools in the fight against HPV-related diseases and cancers in India. Encouraging early vaccination may help save lives and lower the burden of HPV-related diseases and cancers.HPV is a viral infection that is spread through sexual contact. Throughout the world, it is among the most prevalent STDs. Certain high-risk strains, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, can lead to health issues like genital warts, cervical cancer, and other HPV-related cancers.: Intimate skin-to-skin contact during sexual intercourse is the main way that HPV is spread.HPV vaccination can help protect against some of the HPV types that can cause cervical and certain other cancers.With more than 1.2 lakh new cases each year, cervical cancer is one of the main causes of cancer-related deaths among Indian women. Chronic infection with high-risk HPV types, especially HPV-16 and HPV-18, is the main cause. To help prevent these infections and lower the risk of cervical cancer, the HPV vaccination and regular screenings are important, as HPV doesn't have any specific symptoms at the initial stage. For good protection, HPV vaccination is recommended starting at 9 years of age, ideally before exposure to the virus. Lives can be saved, and the healthcare burden due to cervical cancer can be lowered, when awareness of and access to the vaccination are available to all, including in rural areas.Although there are several benefits, numerous misconceptions about the HPV vaccination still exist. Let's look at three myths regarding the HPV vaccination below, along with the facts that address them:HPV vaccination generally has a good safety profile. Global health agencies, including the FDA and WHO, have authorized it. WHO recommends the HPV vaccination starting at 9 years of age. Just like any other vaccination, the HPV vaccination can cause some mild and temporary side effects, such as discomfort or fever. The advantages of the vaccination in preventing cervical cancer greatly outweigh any potential risks.There is no evidence to support the claim that the HPV vaccination causes infertility. The vaccination can help avoid the risks associated with treating cervical cancer.: By helping to offer protection against the most prevalent high-risk HPV types, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, which account for most cervical cancer cases, HPV vaccination can help lower the risk of cervical cancer and certain other HPV-related cancers.HPV vaccination is an important step in helping lower the risk of cervical cancer and certain other HPV-related cancers and diseases. The risk of HPV-related cancers and diseases is lowered when HPV vaccination is started at age 9. It can help save lives and lessen the burden of HPV-related diseases.Speak to your doctor about HPV-related cancer and disease prevention, including vaccination, to stay informed and take the right step at the right time.. But for those who don't clear the virus, it can cause certain cancers and diseases.HPV vaccination is recommended for children starting from 9 years of age up to 15. Please speak to your doctor to check your eligibility.People who have experienced a severe adverse reaction to any of the vaccination’s components, or who are pregnant, are not advised to have the vaccination (please see a doctor).Yes. Even if you already have one type of HPV, the HPV vaccination can still protect you against other HPV types which you may not have been infected with. It doesn't cure infections that are already present.HPV - Human Papillomavirus. This information is intended for awareness purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your gynaecologist.HPV vaccination is not intended to be used for treatment and may not result in protection in all vaccination recipients. Vaccination does not eliminate the necessity for women to continue HPV relevant cancer screening recommended by their doctor.IN-GSL-01959 - 15/9/2026 -7/9/2028Copyright © 2026 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. All rights reserved. MSD Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd. Wework Enam Sambhav, C-20, G Block BKC, Bandra East, Mumbai 400051.For more information, visit the website
