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Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

What is HPV?

  • Genital HPV infection is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) which may result in genital warts and abnormal pap tests.
  • There are over 100 HPV types. About 30 of these types are sexually transmitted and cause genital HPV.
  • Genital HPV is spread primarily through skin-to-skin contact.
  • Genital HPV cannot be entirely prevented by condom use, although condoms reduce the risk of transmission.
  • This virus is often asymptomatic -- people usually don't know they have it.
  • HPV can be contracted from one partner, remain dormant, and then later be unknowingly transmitted to another sexual partner, including a spouse.
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) is an extremely common STD, with an estimated 80 percent of sexually active people contracting it at some point in their lives; 5.5 million new infections occur yearly in the United States.

The HPV Vaccine

  • The HPV vaccine is indicated for 11-26 year-old girls/women who have not yet received or completed the vaccine series. It is not currently approved for use in men.
  • Studies have found the vaccine to be almost 100% effective in preventing diseases caused by the four HPV types covered by the vaccine - including precancers of the cervix, vulva and vagina, and genital warts.
  • The FDA has licensed the HPV vaccine as safe and effective. This vaccine has been tested in over 11,000 females (ages 9-26 years) around the world. These studies have shown no serious side effects. The most common side effect is soreness at the injection site.

How do I get the vaccine from the NYU Student Health Center?

  • Make an appointment with Women’s Health services by calling 212-443-1166. At your appointment, you will talk with a healthcare provider who will provide information and the vaccine.
  • The HPV vaccine is given through a series of three shots over a 6-month period. The second and third doses should be given 2 and 6 months (respectively) after the first dose.
  • The fee for the vaccine is $152 per dose ($456 for full series of 3 doses).

Do I still need a pap? YES!!!

  • The vaccine will NOT protect against all types of HPV that cause cervical cancer, so vaccinated women will still be at risk for some cancers.
  • Some women may not get all required doses of the vaccine (or they may not get them at the right times), so they may not get the vaccine’s full benefits.
  • Women may not get the full benefit of the vaccine if they receive it after they’ve already acquired one of the four HPV types.

For more information...