Every year, thousands of people contract the human papillomavirus (HPV), often without knowing it. However, it is possible to protect yourself effectively through simple and accessible means: using a barrier method of contraception (condom, dental dam) and the HPV vaccine is strongly recommended. Here is some useful information about the vaccination.

What is the human papillomavirus (HPV)?

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. There are over a hundred types of HPV, of which some forty can infect the genital region.

The majority of HPV infections are asymptomatic. This means that the infected person shows no signs or symptoms, but can still transmit the virus to partners during sexual activity. In most cases, the virus disappears on its own in less than two years, leaving no after-effects. However, in around 10-20% of those infected, the infection persists and can progress to precancerous lesions or cancer.

Still have doubts about the importance of getting vaccinated? We have compiled a list of myths and facts about vaccination in an article.

How is HPV transmitted?

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is transmitted mainly through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal and oral intercourse. It can also be spread by simple skin-to-skin contact in the genital area, even without penetration or ejaculation. HPV is very common and is often transmitted without the infected person showing any symptoms. Sharing non-disinfected sex toys can also be a vector of transmission. Although condoms reduce the risk, they don't completely eliminate it, as the virus can infect areas not covered by the condom.

How long is HPV contagious?

HPV can be transmitted from the onset of sexual activity, even if there are no symptoms. An infected person can remain contagious until their immune system has completely eliminated the virus. This timeframe varies from person to person.

What are the symptoms of HPV in men and women?

In most cases, HPV infection goes unnoticed: it causes no visible symptoms in either men or women. This is what makes the virus so easy to transmit: you can have it and pass it on without knowing it.

In women:

• Genital warts: Small, painless growths on the vaginal lips, around the anus or inside the vagina.
• Precancerous lesions: Detectable only with a Pap test or HPV test.
• Cancers of the cervix, vulva or vagina: Often asymptomatic at first; abnormal vaginal discharge or unusual bleeding may appear at a more advanced stage.

In men:

• Genital warts: Small bumps on the penis, scrotum, groin or around the anus.
• Precancerous lesions: Usually silent, they can progress to cancers of the penis, anus or throat.
• Few or no symptoms after infection, which contributes to the unintended spread of the virus.

What are the preventive measures?

Here are a few suggested steps you can take to help protect yourself against HPV:

• Use a condom during sexual intercourse.
  Using a condom does not totally eliminate the risk of contracting the virus, as it does not necessarily cover all areas of skin in contact. However, wearing it can reduce the risk of contracting HPV.
• Limit the number of sexual partners you have.
  The risk of contracting HPV increases with the number of sexual partners.
• Get vaccinated against HPV. This is by far the most effective way of avoiding infection and its consequences.

Can HPV be cured?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) cannot be cured per se, as it is a viral infection. However, in the majority of cases, the immune system is able to eliminate the virus naturally within a few months to a few years.

What are the risks of HPV?

Certain types of high-risk HPV (particularly strains 16 and 18) can cause precancerous lesions or cancers (cervix, throat, anus, penis, etc.).

• Low-risk HPV types can cause anogenital warts. These can be treated, but the virus remains present in the body.

Regular screening such as Pap tests and HPV tests can help detect abnormal changes and prevent certain cancers such as cervical cancer.

At what age can you receive the HPV vaccine?

HPV vaccination is included in the Quebec Immunization Program vaccination schedule. It is free to all children and teenagers aged 9 to 20. A dose is scheduled in the school immunization schedule in the 4th grade of elementary school. In the adult population, certain individuals are also eligible to receive the vaccine free of charge (e.g. people with weakened immune systems).

How many doses are needed for the HPV vaccine?

• Two doses, 6 months apart, are recommended for people under 15.
• Three doses are required for older or immunocompromised people, spread over an interval of several months (0, 2 and 6 months as a general rule.)

What are the side effects of HPV vaccines?

Most symptoms after vaccination are mild and temporary. They may include:

• Redness or pain at the injection site;
• Low-grade fever;
• Fatigue or headaches.

More rarely, some may experience gastrointestinal symptoms or dizziness. Serious side effects are very rare.

Can I catch the human papillomavirus (HPV) if I am vaccinated?

Vaccination does not protect against all existing HPV types. However, it targets the most virulent and frequent strains. It is therefore possible, although unlikely, to be infected by a type not covered by the vaccine. For this reason, it is essential to combine vaccination with other preventive measures.

Why get vaccinated against HPV after becoming sexually active?

It is never too late to ensure that you prevent certain diseases that can be avoided through vaccination, including HPV. Vaccination against human papillomavirus may be appropriate, particularly for people who have a new sexual partner or who have simply never been vaccinated before. All sexually active people would benefit from HPV vaccination. Although antibody levels are generally higher in young people, adults can still achieve good protection.

Until what age is HPV vaccination recommended?

HPV vaccination is strongly recommended up to the age of 26, especially for people who were not vaccinated as teenagers. In fact, this is one of the priority groups in several vaccination programs, as the vaccine is most effective when administered before or at the onset of sexual activity. Current data even recommend vaccination beyond the age of 45.

Where to get vaccinated?

At Jean Coutu, you can receive your HPV vaccine directly at the pharmacy. Your pharmacist can assess your eligibility and guide you through the process.

Is the HPV vaccine free in Canada?

Two vaccines are marketed in Canada: One that protects against types 16 and 18 only, and the other that protects against the nine types of HPV that most commonly pose a health risk (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58). They help reduce the risk of developing diseases such as genital warts, as well as cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and throat.

For details on free vaccination, more information on the HPV vaccine, and measures to protect yourself against this virus, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.