HPV Frequently Asked Questions
So if I don’t get the HPV jab I’ll get cervical cancer?
There is a risk that you could contract cervical cancer if you don’t have the vaccination, HPV often has no symptoms and can be in your cervix for years - so why not get vaccinated now?
Now I’ve had the injections, will I still need to go for smear tests?
Yes. All women should go for smear tests (cervical screening) as soon as they are old enough, (25 and over in England). The vaccine protects against 70% of the HPV types that cause cervical cancer, so you still have to be screened to try and pick up cervical abnormalities caused by other HPV types that could lead to cancer.
Do my parents have to give their consent?
It’s better to have the consent of your parents so why not discuss it with them? It’s nothing to be embarrassed about, is it? But if you are sure that you want the HPV vaccine, you are entitled to be given the jab.
Oops - what if I forget to turn up for my appointment?
Just book another appointment with the nurse at your doctor’s surgery. You won’t be told off - we’d be more upset if you didn’t turn up at all!
Who is organising the vaccination programme?
NHS Bury manages the delivery of the vaccination programme in the Bury borough area. A schools based programme is available for most school age girls. For the older girls/young women, those aged 16-18, the HPV vaccinations are available in local GP surgeries.
