Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How safe is the HPV vaccine?
A: The HPV vaccine was shown to be safe in studies with thousands of women. The HPV vaccine cannot give you HPV or cervical cancer. The most common side effect is soreness where the needle entered the skin.

Q: How common is HPV?
A: HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that about 80 percent of all sexually active adults will be exposed to at some time during their lives. 

Q: How serious is an HPV infection?
A: Most HPV infections are temporary and clear up on their own, but some types of HPV may lead to changes in the cells of the cervix, which could result in cervical cancer if not treated.

Q: How does HPV affect men?
A: Men can transmit the infection to their sexual partners.  Men can get genital warts. In rare cases, HPV infection in men can cause cancer of the anus and penis. Clinical studies are currently underway to determine if the vaccine is safe and effective for males.