Cervical Cancer Vaccine

This Shot Could Save Your Daughter's Life

In 2007, there was a medical breakthrough in women's healthcare: the United States Federal Drug Administration's (FDA) introduction of Gardasil®, a vaccine that protects against four types of the human papilloma virus (HPV), types 16, 18, 6 and 11. Gardasil is not a treatment for cervical cancer or genital warts but rather a method of prevention against the two types of HPV that cause 70 percent of all cervical cancer cases and two types HPV that cause 90 percent of all genital warts cases.

Gardasil® vaccinations are most effective when administered before a woman becomes sexually active. Women who are already sexually active may still receive the benefit of protection if they haven't been exposed to the HPV yet. Check with your physician to see if Gardasil® is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gardasil®
  • Who should get the Gardasil® vaccine?
    Girls and young women who have not become sexually active and are between the ages of nine and 26 are prime candidates for the vaccine. Women over 26 years of age and those who have already become sexually active also may receive some benefit.
  • How does the vaccine work?
    The vaccine works by triggering an antibody response to the virus.
  • Is the vaccine safe?
    The FDA approved Gardasil® in 2007 and it was tested in clinical trials with more than 12,000 people. For information on side effects of Gardasil®, visit www.gardasil.com.
  • How many shots are needed?
    Gardasil® protection is administered in three vaccines over a six-month period. The second shot is administered two months after the first shot and the third shot is administered four months later which is six months after the first shot.
  • For how long does the protection last?
    Studies into the length of protection are still being evaluated.
  • Do I still need to get a Pap smear every year?
    Yes. Pap smears (cervical cancer screenings) look for abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix. There are 10 to 30 types of HPV and Gardasil® protects against only four.

Resources at Cedars-Sinai


For more information on women's health matters, any of the programs and services listed, or a referral to a Cedars-Sinai physician or program, call 1-800-CEDARS-1 (1-800-233-2771)