Cervical Cancer Vaccine in Mumbai
The cervical cancer vaccine protects against the human papillomavirus (HPV), the infection responsible for nearly all cervical cancers. It works best when given between the ages of 9 and 14, before any sexual activity, when only two doses are needed; it is also approved and useful for women up to 45, given as three doses. Cervical cancer remains one of the most common cancers among Indian women and is one of the very few that can be largely prevented. Dr. Poonam Nautiyal provides HPV vaccination and cervical screening in Mumbai.
Also searched as: HPV vaccine, cervical cancer prevention, Gardasil, Cervavac
What cervical cancer vaccine involves
Cervical cancer kills tens of thousands of Indian women every year, and it is very nearly entirely preventable — through vaccination before exposure, and screening afterwards. Vaccinating a daughter at 9 to 14 is one of the highest-value things a parent can do for her long-term health, and the schedule is simpler at that age: two doses instead of three. Indian-made HPV vaccines have made this considerably more affordable than it once was. Vaccination after becoming sexually active is still worthwhile, because it protects against the high-risk types you have not already encountered. What vaccination does not do is replace screening: no vaccine covers every cancer-causing HPV type, so Pap smears continue on the normal schedule regardless.
What this includes
- Protection against the high-risk HPV types that cause most cervical cancers.
- Only two doses needed when given between ages 9 and 14.
- Also protects against genital warts caused by certain HPV types.
- Combined with routine Pap smears, close to complete protection.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best age for the HPV vaccine?
Between 9 and 14, before any sexual activity — the immune response is strongest then, and only two doses are needed. It remains approved and beneficial up to age 45, given as three doses.
Do I still need Pap smears if I have been vaccinated?
Yes. The vaccine covers the highest-risk HPV types but not every one of them, so routine cervical screening continues on the usual schedule.
Can boys get the HPV vaccine?
Yes. HPV causes cancers in men too, and vaccinating boys also reduces transmission. Many countries vaccinate both sexes routinely.
Is the HPV vaccine safe?
It is among the most closely studied vaccines in use, given to hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Side effects are usually limited to a sore arm, and occasionally mild fever or dizziness shortly after the injection.
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