Vaccine for Cervical Cancer: Things you should know
Founder of Menstrupedia Aditi Gupta took the first vaccine of Cervical Cancer & shared valuable information
Recently, the founder of Mestrupedia, Aditi Gupta, took her first vaccine for cervical cancer and share this information on her Instagram account. She also addressed some important questions and revealed reasons that why it is important for every woman. Notably, Aditi Gupta is extremely passionate about women health and her page Menstrupedia is full of useful information. So what is cervical cancer? Who can take the vaccine for cervical cancer and when one should take it? Here is all that you need to know!
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer starts in the cells lining the cervix- the lower part of the uterus (womb). Notably, the cervix connects the body of the uterus ( the upper part where a fetus grows) to the vagina. Cancer starts when the cell begins to grow out of control. Precancer often does not cause any signs or symptoms. Almost of Cervical cancer cases, 99 per cent are linked to infection with high–risk human Papillomaviruses, extremely common viruses transmitted through sexual contact. As experts suggest – Symptoms can only be seen during the early stage. Advanced cancer or cancer that has spread to other parts of the body might have severe symptoms depending on the tissues and organs to which the disease has spread.
Note: The cause of the symptom may have different medical conditions that’s why it is important to seek medical help.
Let us take a look at the symptoms
- Blood Spots or light bleeding between or following periods
- Menstrual bleeding that is longer than the usual
- Bleeding after intercourse
- Increased Vaginal discharge
- Bleeding after menopause
- Unexplained back pain
Let us take a look at the Statistics
As per National Health Portal, Govt. of India – In India, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women. Notably, it is the second most common cancer among women between 15- 44 years of age. On the other hand, as per World Health Organisation, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. In the year 2018, an estimated 5, 70,00 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer and as per the report of WHO, 311000 women died from the disease. According to Dr. Prashant Gandhi‘s website, one out of 4 women who die of cervical cancer is from India. As per the stats shared on the website, 67, 477 Indian Women died of cervical cancer annually. According to studies, women in the 55 -65 age group are at the highest risk of cervical cancer. However, many women have fallen prey to it in their 30s or even in the late 60s.
Now let’s talk about the HPV vaccine
First and foremost- the HPV vaccine prevents cervical cancer. It is the only kind of vaccine that prevents cancer. Here are a few things that one should know about the Vaccine.
- It has three doses- First Dose Day 0
- Second Dose in 30 days
- Third dose after 6 months
Read More:- Jayant Kandoi, who fought cancer 6 times & didn’t give up ‘Hope’
The cost of each dose in India is 2000
Aditi Gupta through her social media post also addressed the myth that the HPV vaccine should be only given to virgins. The fact is – It is best to be vaccinated before the risk of exposure. But one can take the vaccine till the age of 45. It can protect a woman from a range of HPV cancer-causing strains.
So who all can take the vaccine for cervical cancer and who should not take it?
As we said earlier, women till the age of 44 can take this vaccine. It is more effective if it is given between 9-13 ( when a girl or a woman is not sexually active). But there are a few things that you should keep in mind before going for the vaccine.
- Anyone who had a life-threatening allergic reaction to yeast, or to a previous dose of HPV vaccine should not get the vaccine. Tell your doctor if witness a severe allergy.
- As per studies, pregnant women should not take the HPV vaccine. It could be safe for the mother or the unborn baby but it is being studied.
Are there any Side effects?
Well, it doesn’t cause any serious side effects. However, just like other vaccines or medicines, it can cause pain at the injection site, redness and swelling, Mild fever, itching at the injection site. Notably, vaccine causing serious problems such as severe allergic reactions or death is extremely low.
Final Words
Before going for the vaccination, you can do your research. Talk to your physician or your gynaecologist. Dr Tanaya Narendra who is known as Dr. Cuterus ( Millennial doctor) has a massive following on Social media and information shared by her on sexual health comes really handy. She has created a highlight of Gynaecs list on her page – You can go check them out and can reach out to them for consultation. ( No DMS)
