The new treatment won’t be available on the NHS till next year, for 12-13 year olds, but has already been enthusiastically welcomed by doctors who believe it could save the lives of thousands of women.

What is HPV?

HPV is a family of viruses numbering over 100, which affect different parts of the body in different ways. For example, HPV1 causes common warts on the hands. In women, HPV6 and HPV11 cause warts on the outside of the vagina and HPV16 and HPV18 affect the cervix (neck of the womb). These 2 viruses are the cause of three quarters of all cervical cancers.

How do HPV16 and 18 cause cancer?

HPV is a very common virus and at least 8 out of 10 women have the virus on their cervixes by the time they are 30. Fortunately, most women set up an immune reaction to the outer coat of the virus and get rid of it themselves. In a small number the virus enters the cells of the transformation zone of the cervix. The transformation zone is an area where the cells are naturally more active and are more vulnerable to the virus. Once the virus is in the cells of the cervix it is hidden from the immune system and it produces proteins which copy naturally occurring proteins called oncogenes. These irritate the cells over a number of years and initially produce a pre-cancer change called CIN, which in some instances can progress to cancer. This whole process can take 10-20 years.

How does the vaccine work?

The vaccine needs to be given to girls before they have sexual intercourse when they could be exposed to HPV. It stimulates the immune systems to reject the virus more effectively and prevents the virus getting into the cells of the cervix. The Government is setting up a programme of immunisation of young girls with the aim of immunising all young girls before they reach sexual maturity. The vaccine is also suitable for older girls so long as they have never been exposed to the virus – in other words before they have intercourse.

If I am vaccinated does that mean I don’t need smears?

This is definitely not the case. The vaccine offers a high degree of protection against the pre cancer and cancer of the cervix but HPV16 and 18 only protect against three quarters of the viruses that cause trouble. It is essential that you go and have smears when you are invited by the smear programme after the age of 25. The good news is that it is much less likely that you will have an abnormal smear in your life if you have been vaccinated.

Are there any side effects?

It is a very safe vaccine with few mild side effects. You may feel a little off colour for a few hours.

How is the vaccine given?

It is an injection under the skin given at 0, 2 and 6-month intervals. We do not know as yet whether booster injections will be needed in later life.

How can I make an appointment?

For further information call Spire Bristol Health Clinic on 0117 317 1300.