HPV Vaccine Specialist in Austell, GA

The HPV vaccine helps prevent new infections with HPV types responsible for many HPV-related cancers and genital warts. It does not treat an HPV infection that is already present or reverse health problems caused by an existing infection.

The vaccine works by helping the immune system recognize certain HPV types so it can respond if exposure occurs later. The HPV vaccine used in the United States protects against nine HPV types and contains noninfectious virus-like particles, meaning the vaccine itself cannot cause an HPV infection.

The CDC routinely recommends HPV vaccination at ages 11 or 12, although vaccination can begin at age 9. Catch-up vaccination is recommended through age 26 for people who were not adequately vaccinated earlier.

The number of doses depends mainly on the age when the vaccination series begins:

• Most people who start before age 15 receive two doses, usually 6–12 months apart.
• People who begin the series at age 15 or later generally receive three doses.
• Certain people with weakened immune systems may also need a three-dose series.

Dr. Mainthia or Dr. Hansalia can review previous vaccine records and help determine which schedule applies.

Not at every age. Routine catch-up HPV vaccination is recommended through age 26.

For some adults ages 27–45 who were not adequately vaccinated earlier, HPV vaccination may still be considered after a discussion with a healthcare professional. The potential benefit varies because many adults in this age group have already been exposed to one or more HPV types.

HPV vaccines are not licensed in the United States for adults older than age 45.

Patients who are unsure whether they completed the vaccine series can discuss their vaccination history with Cobb Women’s Health rather than assuming they need to start over.

Yes. HPV vaccination does not replace recommended cervical cancer screening.

The vaccine greatly lowers the risk from the HPV types it targets, but it does not protect against every HPV type associated with cervical cancer. Women and other people with a cervix should continue appropriate cervical cancer screening even if they have completed the HPV vaccination series.

The type and timing of screening can depend on age, previous results, health history, and the screening method used. Dr. Mainthia or Dr. Hansalia can help patients understand the screening schedule appropriate for their individual circumstances.

HPV vaccines have an established safety record. Common reactions are generally mild and can include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, headache, fatigue, nausea, fever, muscle or joint discomfort, and occasional dizziness or fainting.

A person should tell the vaccination provider about a previous severe allergic reaction to an HPV vaccine or any known severe allergies. A severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or vaccine component is a contraindication. The 9-valent HPV vaccine contains yeast protein and should not be given to someone with immediate hypersensitivity to yeast.

A minor illness such as a mild cold generally does not prevent vaccination. Moderate or severe acute illness may be a reason to postpone the vaccine until symptoms improve.

Cobb Women’s Health provides HPV vaccination at 1810 Mulkey Rd SW, Suite 102, Austell, GA 30106.

Board-certified gynecologists Dr. Nandita Mainthia, MD, FACOG, and Dr. Hitendra Hansalia, MD, FACOG, can review vaccination history, discuss current recommendations, and help patients determine whether the HPV vaccine is appropriate based on age and individual circumstances.

Contact Cobb Women’s Health or request an appointment to learn more about HPV vaccination in Austell, GA.

No. HPV vaccines use noninfectious virus-like particles rather than live HPV. These particles help the immune system develop protection but cannot reproduce or cause HPV infection.

Yes. The CDC states that HPV vaccination may be administered at the same visit as other recommended vaccines. A healthcare professional can determine which vaccines are appropriate at a particular visit.

An interrupted HPV vaccination series generally does not need to be restarted. The remaining dose or doses can usually be given according to recommended intervals. Patients should bring available vaccination records so their provider can determine what remains necessary.

No. Routine HPV or Pap testing is not recommended simply to determine whether someone should receive the HPV vaccine. Eligibility is generally based on factors such as age and previous vaccination history.

Usually, yes. A minor illness such as a mild cold generally is not a reason to delay HPV vaccination. Someone who is moderately or severely ill may be advised to wait until symptoms improve.

• CDC: HPV Vaccine Recommendations
• CDC: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – Pink Book
• CDC: HPV Vaccine Safety
• American Cancer Society: Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines