HPV
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that spreads through intimate contact. It is a widespread malady, affecting over 80% of women and men in their lifetime.
The majority of HPV infections go away on their own. However, persistent infections with high-risk HPV may lead to complications such as cervical cancer—There are more than 200 known strains of HPV, 40 of which can infect the genitals. Different strains can affect other body parts, such as the skin or throat.
Regular screening is vital to stay protected against HPV and to maintain your intimate health.
Symptoms of HPV Infection
Most HPV infections are symptomless. Other HPV infections may cause genital warts or warts in the mouth or throat that can lead to oropharyngeal cancer.
High-risk HPV infection of the cervix does not cause any signs or symptoms. The abnormality on the cervix is detectable by cervical screening (Pap Smear) and HPV DNA (genetic material) tests.
Symptoms of cervical cancer include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding: For example, bleeding after menstrual periods or sex.
- Changes in vaginal discharge: In the amount, colour or smell.
- Pelvic pain: Constant pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis unrelated to your menstrual cycle.
- Unexplained weight loss: Significant weight loss without changing your diet or activities.
- Swelling in the legs: If cervical cancer spreads and presses on lymph nodes or blood vessels, it may cause leg swelling.
- Frequent or painful urination: This may occur if the cancer spreads to nearby tissues or affects the bladder.
- Blood in urine or stool: This is a rare symptom that can indicate more advanced cervical cancer.
- Pain during intercourse: Known as dyspareunia, this discomfort is a sign of advanced cervical cancer.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak, even with adequate rest
The above symptoms can be due to conditions apart from cervical cancer. If you experience any of these persistently, speak to a doctor you trust for further evaluation.
Early detection through regular screenings remains the best way to identify cervical cancer early
1
HPV Vaccination
It is strongly recommended that all females aged 9 to 26 get the HPV vaccination to prevent cervical cancer.
2
Regular Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Smear)
HPV vaccination only protects against up to 90% of high-risk HPV types.
3
HPV DNA testing
Unlike a Pap test, which examines cervical cells for abnormalities, an HPV DNA test specifically looks for the genetic material (DNA) of the virus in cervical cells.
The vaccine may be offered to women up to age 45, depending on your doctor’s recommendations.
What are the types of HPV vaccinations available?
HPV Strains Coverage | Cervarix (Bivalent) | Gardasil 9 (Nanovalent) |
|---|---|---|
HPV Types Covered | 16, 18 | 16, 18, 6, 11, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58 |
Dosing (Months) | 0, 1, 6 |
0, 2, 6 |
Covers Cancer | ||
Covers Warts | ||
Medisave Claimable | ||
HPV Screening & Vaccination Guidelines for Women of All Ages
Women aged 25-29:
- A Pap test every three years.
- HPV testing is not typically recommended as a standalone test in this age group, as HPV infections are common and often resolve on their own without causing health issues.
Women aged 30 and above:
- HPV DNA test once every five years.
- Alternatively, you can go for a Pap test alone every three years or co-testing (a combination of a Pap test and an HPV DNA test) every five years.
Women aged 69 and above:
- Can be discharged at 69 years from screening if:
- Three consecutive negative cervical cytology tests
- Or two consecutive negative HPV tests in the last 10 years, with the most recent test occurring within the last 5 years
- Or two consecutive negative Co-tests in the last 10 years, with the most recent test occurring within the last 5 years
Women with health conditions:
- Those with weakened immune systems, HIV, or a history of abnormal Pap or HPV tests may need more frequent screening, as advised by their doctor.
Vaccinations (Gardasil 9)
Girls aged 9-14:
- Two doses of the HPV vaccine at 0 and 6-12 months
- A third dose may be required if the two doses are less than 5 months apart.
Women aged 15-45:
- For those who have not been HPV-vaccinated, three doses are recommended.
- At 0, 2, 6 months
HPV vaccines are effective at protecting women from cervical cancer and other HPV-related conditions, especially when given before exposure to the virus.
Can HPV be treated?
While there is no direct treatment for HPV itself, there are treatments directed at managing HPV-associated conditions such as cancer or genital warts.
No treatment is required for asymptomatic HPV infections, and up to 90% of infections are naturally cleared by the body without the need for treatment.
Regular cervical cancer screenings (Pap tests) can help to detect changes in the cervical cells caused by HPV infection and identify high-risk HPV strains.
How Much is the HPV Vaccination?
HPV vaccination with us costs $280, exclusive of GST. We offer the Gardasil 9 vaccine.
Protect yourself with HPV Vaccination
Your health and peace of mind matter deeply. Protecting yourself from HPV and cervical cancer is a loving step toward a healthier, brighter future for you and your loved ones.
Prevention starts with understanding your options and taking action—Prologue is here to guide and support you every step of the way.
As a CHAS and Healthier SG clinic, we encourage you to explore subsidies and Singapore’s Screen for Life programme. Let us be your partner in health—because your wellness is worth it.
If you have questions or want to discuss the HPV vaccination, don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re just a call away.
FAQ
How is HPV transmitted?
HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, such as sexual activity, by sharing contaminated sex toys and even from an infected mother to her baby during delivery. HPV cannot spread by touching contaminated surfaces, such as sitting on a toilet seat.
What are the different types of HPV?
There are over 200 strains of HPV (Human Papillomavirus). These strains fall into two categories:
Low-risk HPV strains
- These do not cause cancer but may lead to conditions like genital warts and can infect the skin of the fingers, hands, mouth, throat and face.
- HPV types 6 and 11 are responsible for about 90% of genital warts.
- Low-risk types of HPV may also be symptomless.
High-risk HPV strains
- High-risk HPV is associated with cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancer in women, throat cancer, and even anal or penile cancer in men.
- HPV types 16 and 18 account for about 70% of cervical cancer cases.
- After that, the six most common cervical cancer-causing HPV types are 31, 33, 35, 45, 52 and 58.
Regular screening and vaccination are crucial in managing risks associated with high-risk.
My daughter is not sexually active. Does she need the vaccine?
Yes! For maximum protection, your daughter should get vaccinated before becoming sexually active.
Can males take the HPV vaccination?
Males can be vaccinated, too. HPV vaccination can help reduce the risk of anal cancer, genital warts, and pre-cancerous lesions.
What are the risk factors for cervical cancer?
Risk factors for cervical cancer include:
- Persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains.
- A compromised immunity (for example, individuals who have HIV are more likely to have persistent HPV infections and quickly develop pre-cancer and cancer symptoms).
- Co-infection of other sexually transmitted diseases, such as herpes, chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
- Having unprotected sexual intercourse and/or multiple sexual partners from an early age.
- Tobacco smoking.
Who should not be HPV vaccinated?
Anyone who:
- Is allergic to yeast or any component of the vaccine
- Has previously developed hypersensitivity after receiving a dose of the vaccine
- Is pregnant
Individuals with low platelet counts, bleeding disorders or who are on blood thinning medication should speak to their doctor before vaccination.
Are there side effects of the HPV vaccine?
While some might experience mild side effects like swelling at the injection site, soreness or redness, rare allergic reactions can occur in individuals with severe allergies to vaccine components, so always inform your doctor of any known allergies.
Besides HPV vaccination, how else can I prevent cervical cancer?
While some might experience mild side effects like swelling at the injection site, soreness or redness, rare allergic reactions can occur in individuals with severe allergies to vaccine components, so always inform your doctor of any known allergies.
Are there side effects of the HPV vaccine?
To prevent cervical cancer, apart from getting your HPV vaccination, go for regular cervical screenings, limit sexual partners, use condoms during intercourse, and quit smoking to reduce risk factors and maintain cervical health.
I am above 26 years old. Can I still be vaccinated?
Women up to 45 can be vaccinated with Gardasil 9, as they can still develop an immune response to the subtypes she has yet to be exposed to. While the vaccine doesn’t treat existing infections or pre-cancer, it protects against other HPV subtypes.
How is HPV related to cervical cancer?
Certain types of HPV can infect the cervix, vagina and vulva. If the infection persists, it can cause abnormal changes to the cells, and this may develop into cervical cancer—Cervical cancer typically takes years to develop.
Can I still get HPV with the vaccine?
The vaccine protects against the most common high-risk and low-risk HPV types, but it does not cover all strains. Regular screenings are still essential.
How effective is the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is highly effective, offering up to 90% protection against high-risk HPV strains that cause cervical cancer and other HPV-related conditions.
What should I do if I miss my vaccine or become pregnant before completing the course?
If you miss a dose, take the next one as soon as possible—there’s no need to restart the series. If you become pregnant, defer remaining doses until after delivery; the vaccine is safe during breastfeeding.
Who should receive HPV vaccination?
HPV vaccines are recommended for girls aged 9 to 26 and are most effective before first sexual exposure, but sexually active women may still benefit from an HPV vaccination.
Is the vaccine safe?
Yes, the vaccine is safe! The vaccine has more than 10 years of safety data. However, there may be some side effects, such as pain, swelling, bruising at the injection site, and fever.
Do I need the HPV vaccine if I have already had an HPV infection?
Yes, the vaccine can still protect against other high-risk HPV types you’ve not been exposed to, reducing your risk of developing more complicated conditions like cervical cancer.
