HPV Vaccination
Long-term protection from cervical cancer.
What is HPV?
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The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a common virus that can infect various parts of the body.
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HPV can be transmitted through sexual activity or child birth. It cannot be transmitted by touching common surfaces.
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An estimated 1 out of 2 sexually-active individuals have had a HPV infection.
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Oftentimes, HPV shows no symptoms and goes undetected.
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There are more than 100 known strains of HPV. Out of these, 14 strains of high-risk HPV can cause cervical cancer.
What is Cervical Cancer?
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When HPV infects the cervix, there is a chance for abnormal cell growth & development of cervical cancer.
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Cervical cancer is the 10th most common cancer in Singaporean women.
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Cervical cancer usually takes up to 15 years to develop in the body.
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Treatments include chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
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It is a major cause of gynaecological deaths with a death rate of 250,000 per year (worldwide).
Cervical Cancer Symptoms
Cervical cancer symptoms include the following:
1. Abnormal vaginal discharge
2. Abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as post-coital, in between periods, or post-menopause
3. Pain during sexual intercourse
Oftentimes, there are no symptoms during the early stages of cervical cancer. Therefore, is important to go for regular pap smears to protect yourself.
Why Get Vaccinated?
Simple Treatment for Potentially Terminal Disease
Cervical cancer can potentially be terminal, even more so at advanced stages. Getting vaccinated is a simple procedure that minimizes the chances of a serious disease.
Hassle-free, Long-Term Effects
The HPV vaccination is 3-dosage treatment. It has been shown to have sustained effectiveness without the need for additional booster shots.
Medisave Claimable
HPV vaccinations are Medisave-claimable. To be eligible, you must be female and between 9 to 26 years old (inclusive). You may claim up to $500 per Medisave account. That being said, if you have two Medisave account payers, you can claim up to $1,000.
Currently, Medisave can only be used for C-2 and G-4 vaccinations. MOH is still reviewing the coverage for G-9 vaccinations. We have G-4 and G-9 vaccines available at Temasek Medical Centre.
Temasek Medical Centre is able to help you submit your Medisave claims.
Who is suitable?
HPV vaccines are recommended for women aged 9 to 26 years.
HPV vaccination is most effective on patients who have not had sexual intercourse. HPV vaccination may not be effective on people over 26 years old because: (1) possible exposure to certain strains of HPV reduces efficacy of the vaccine (2) reduced immune response to the vaccine due to age.
If you are over 26 years old but still wish to get vaccinated, it would be best to consult a doctor first.
Are there any side effects?
HPV vaccinations are regarded by the healthcare industry as safe and effective. Possible side effects are usually mild, they include local pain, swelling, redness, itchiness, and fever.
