6. I already have HPV, so Gardasil won't help me, right? Actually, there are many strains of HPV, so, even if you know you already have it, talk to your doctor because you can still get protection from the other cancer-causing strains with Gardasil.
7. I'm only sleeping with one person. I don't need to be vaccinated, do I? It's not a bad idea. It's entirely possible that your husband or boyfriend could pass HPV on to you from a previous relationship. Also, I know we hate to think of these possibilities, but Gardasil can be helpful if your partner cheats on you or if you are raped by someone with HPV.
8. What's the downside to Gardasil? There are some negatives to this vaccine that you should consider. First, there may be side effects such as pain or swelling where you were injected, nausea, fever or dizziness. However, the side effects are pretty rare. Also, since the vaccine doesn't protect against all types of cervical cancer, you still have to get regular pap tests (so no saying goodbye to your yearly gyno appointments). Gardasil also does not protect against any other STDs, so protection is still very necessary during sex and it will not clear up an existing infection of HPV or cervical cancer. The high cost of the vaccine can also be a problem so be sure to talk to your insurance company and doctor to find out how much it will cost before you're injected.
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| Kelsey111 | |
| I need a little advise... My boyfriend has HPV and we use condoms so I thought we were protected but I am now not to sure but I think I may have gotten HPV from him and i'm scared to even brong the subject up to him... what should I do? | |
| samantha22 -- Los Angeles | |
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You are tested for HPV by getting a pap. . . however I'm pretty sure you need to request that you are tested for HPV specifically, otherwise your Doctor may not test you for it. |
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| Cambria | |
| When you go to get a Pap, do they automatically check you for HPV. Or do you have to ask them to do so? | |