HPV Vaccine: All You Need to Know After 26
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause a range of health problems, including genital warts and certain types of cancer. The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself against these infections. But what if you’re over the age of 26? Can you still get the HPV vaccine?
The Answer is Yes!
The HPV vaccine is recommended for all people ages 9 through 26. However, it can still be beneficial for people over the age of 26 who have not been vaccinated. This is because HPV infections are still common in adults, and the vaccine can help to protect against future infections.
Benefits of Getting the HPV Vaccine After 26
There are several benefits to getting the HPV vaccine after the age of 26, including:
- Protection against HPV infections: The vaccine can help to protect you against future HPV infections, even if you have already been exposed to the virus.
- Reduced risk of HPV-related health problems: The vaccine can help to reduce your risk of developing HPV-related health problems, such as genital warts and certain types of cancer.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that you are protected against HPV can give you peace of mind and reduce your anxiety about STIs.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine After 26?
The HPV vaccine is recommended for all people ages 27 and older who have not been vaccinated. This includes:
- People who have not been sexually active: The vaccine is especially important for people who have not been sexually active, as they are at the highest risk of HPV infection.
- People who have only had a few sexual partners: The vaccine can still be beneficial for people who have only had a few sexual partners, as they may still be exposed to HPV through their partners.
- People who have had a previous HPV infection: The vaccine can help to protect against future HPV infections, even if you have already had an HPV infection.
- People who are immunocompromised: People who are immunocompromised are at a higher risk of developing HPV-related health problems, so they should get the HPV vaccine if they are able.
How to Get the HPV Vaccine After 26
If you are over the age of 26 and have not been vaccinated against HPV, you should talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated. The vaccine is available at most doctor’s offices and clinics.
The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself against HPV infections and HPV-related health problems. If you are over the age of 26 and have not been vaccinated, talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated today.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Thinking that you’re too old to get the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine is safe and effective for people of all ages.
- Waiting to get the HPV vaccine until you’re in a relationship. The HPV vaccine is most effective when you get it before you’re exposed to the virus.
- Not getting all three doses of the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine is given in a series of three doses. It’s important to get all three doses to be fully protected.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- The HPV vaccine is safe and effective.
- The HPV vaccine can protect you against HPV infections and HPV-related health problems.
- The HPV vaccine is available at most doctor’s offices and clinics.
Cons:
- The HPV vaccine can cause some side effects, such as pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site.
- The HPV vaccine is not 100% effective.
- The HPV vaccine does not protect against all types of HPV.
Conclusion
The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself against HPV infections and HPV-related health problems. If you are over the age of 26 and have not been vaccinated, talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated today.
Additional Resources
Tables
Table 1: HPV Vaccine Coverage Rates by Age Group
Age Group | Coverage Rate |
---|---|
13-17 years | 69.1% |
18-26 years | 60.1% |
27-45 years | 43.4% |
46-64 years | 28.8% |
Table 2: HPV-Related Health Problems
Health Problem | Symptoms |
---|---|
Genital warts | Small, fleshy bumps on the genitals |
Cervical cancer | Cancer of the cervix |
Vaginal cancer | Cancer of the vagina |
Vulvar cancer | Cancer of the vulva |
Anal cancer | Cancer of the anus |
Oropharyngeal cancer | Cancer of the back of the throat |
Table 3: HPV Vaccine Side Effects
Side Effect | Frequency |
---|---|
Pain at the injection site | Common |
Redness at the injection site | Common |
Swelling at the injection site | Common |
Fever | Uncommon |
Headache | Uncommon |
Nausea | Uncommon |
Table 4: HPV Vaccine Availability
Location | Availability |
---|---|
Doctor’s offices | Yes |
Clinics | Yes |
Pharmacies | Yes |
Schools | Yes |