In 2005, the Centers for Disease control estimated that 20 million Americans already had the Human Papillomavirus, or HPV. By the age of 50, it is estimated that 80% of women at some point in their life will contract HPV. Each year about 6.2 million Americans will get HPV. The good news is you can protect yourself by getting the HPV vaccine and Institute For Women’s Health has made it even easier by offering the vaccine in all of our eight locations. What is the HPV Vaccine?
The vaccine was FDA approved on June 8, 2007. It helps prevent cervical cancer, precancerous genital lesions, and genital warts due to HPV.

Who should get the Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is recommend for females ages 9-27. It is best to for females to receive the vaccine before becoming sexual active.

How is the vaccine given?
The vaccine is given in three injections over a six month period. The second and third does are given 2 months and 6 months after the first injection.

What does the vaccine protect against?
The vaccine protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16,18. HPV types 16 and 18 cause 70% of cervical cancer cases. Types 6 and 11 cause 90% of genitial warts*

Does insurance cover the vaccine?
Most insurance plans will cover the vaccine. However, we recommend that you contact your insurance company to determine the exact amount of coverage.

How can I get the vaccine?
All of our physicians and locations can provide patients with the HPV vaccine. It is best to call your physician and schedule a HPV vaccine appointment. During your appointment, your physician can answer any questions or concerns you might have about the vaccine. Below are links to the guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

ACOG – Recommend Guidelines

CDC – Recommend Guidelines