The HPV vaccine is one of the most effective vaccines for preventing cancers caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) – including cervical cancer. Although the vaccine is often associated with young people and the childhood vaccination program, many more can benefit from it. In this post, we review what the HPV vaccine protects against, who should consider it, and how you can get it at Valida Health.
What is HPV, and why is vaccination important?
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common family of viruses transmitted through skin and mucous membrane contact, often in connection with sexual activity. Most people become infected with HPV at some point in their lives, and in the vast majority of cases, the infection clears up on its own. However, in some individuals, certain high-risk types of HPV can lead to cellular changes that can eventually develop into cancer – particularly cervical cancer, but also cancers of, for example, the vagina, penis, anus, and throat. Other types of HPV cause genital warts. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to significantly reduce the risk of these conditions.
Who should consider HPV vaccination?
The HPV vaccine is part of the Danish childhood vaccination program and is offered free of charge to young people within a specific age group. But the vaccine is far from only relevant for this group:
- Young people and adults who were not vaccinated in childhood and who want protection later in life
- Adults who have had few or no previous sexual partners, as the vaccine has the greatest effect before exposure to the HPV types it protects against
- Men, who are often overlooked in the debate about HPV, but who can also develop HPV-related cancers and spread the virus further
- Individuals who wish to minimize their risk as much as possible, regardless of age or previous exposure
Although the vaccine has the greatest effect the earlier it is given, adults can still benefit from vaccination in many cases, as they have rarely been exposed to all the HPV types covered by the vaccine.
What protection does the HPV vaccine provide?
The modern HPV vaccine protects against several of the most high-risk HPV types, including types 16 and 18, which together account for the majority of all cases of cervical cancer. In addition, the vaccine typically also covers types associated with genital warts, as well as additional high-risk types linked to other cancers, including certain cancers of the anus, vagina, penis, and throat. The vaccine does not prevent an already established HPV infection, but it protects against future infection with the types it covers.
It is worth noting that HPV vaccination does not replace regular Pap smear screening for women. The two efforts complement each other: the vaccine prevents infection with the types it covers, while screening remains important for detecting any cellular changes, including from HPV types not covered by the vaccine.
How to get the HPV vaccine at Valida Health
The HPV vaccine is one of our order vaccines and therefore may not necessarily be in stock at the clinic, but can be ordered with short delivery time. This is how it works:
- Contact us by email at info@validahealth.dk, by phone, or book an appointment online so we can order the vaccine for you.
- Vaccination. Vaccination can take place at our clinic in Hellerup, in your own home, or at your workplace.
- Observation. After vaccination, it is recommended that you stay for about 15 minutes for observation.
- Registration. Your vaccination will be registered in your vaccination record on Sundhed.dk.
Subsidy for your vaccination
If you are a member of Sygeforsikringen "danmark" in group 1, 2, or 5, you can receive between 50 and 75% in subsidy for your vaccinations, including the HPV vaccine. It is recommended to check the current subsidy rules before booking an appointment.
Are there side effects of the HPV vaccine?
As with most vaccines, the most common side effects are mild and temporary: soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, and in some cases, mild headache or fever in the days following vaccination. Serious side effects are rare. As with other vaccinations, vaccination is postponed in case of acute illness, fever, or known severe allergy to one or more of the vaccine's ingredients.
How widespread is HPV?
HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, and most sexually active individuals will be exposed to the virus at some point in their lives. In most cases, the immune system clears the infection on its own without lasting consequences. The problem arises when an infection with a high-risk type is not cleared by the body, but instead develops over several years into cellular changes. It is precisely this slow development that makes regular Pap smear screening and vaccination two important, complementary tools in the prevention of HPV-related cancer – the vaccine prevents new infection, while screening detects any changes that have already occurred.
Who should delay or avoid vaccination?
HPV vaccination is generally postponed in case of acute illness or fever. If you are pregnant, it is generally recommended to wait until after delivery, unless otherwise agreed with healthcare professionals. If you have previously had a severe allergic reaction to an HPV vaccine or to any of its ingredients, this must always be stated when booking, so that we can assess the specific course of action with you.
Frequently asked questions about the HPV vaccine
Is it too late to get vaccinated if I am already sexually active?
No. Although the vaccine has the greatest effect the earlier it is given, it is unlikely that you have already been exposed to all the HPV types the vaccine protects against. Therefore, adults can still benefit greatly from vaccination.
Is the HPV vaccine only relevant for women?
No. HPV can cause cancers and genital warts in both sexes, and men also play a role in spreading the virus. Vaccination is therefore recommended for both men and women.
How long does it take to get the vaccine when it needs to be ordered?
Since the HPV vaccine is an order vaccine, you should expect up to a few days of delivery time from when you contact us until the vaccine is ready for use.
Can I combine HPV vaccination with other vaccines?
This is assessed individually based on your health condition and other vaccination needs. Contact us, and we will find the best solution for you.
Book your HPV vaccine at Valida Health today
Whether you want protection for yourself, or you are considering it on behalf of a family member or your child, we will help you through the entire process – from ordering the vaccine to vaccination and registration in your vaccination record. We also offer vaccination at the clinic, at home, and at your workplace, to make it as easy as possible to get started with your protection.
Contact us to order your HPV vaccine, or book an appointment at Valida Health today.
