Naturally, you want to do what’s best for your child. As a parent, you are probably doing your “homework” to learn about HPV (human papillomavirus) and cervical cancer.

If you haven’t already done so, please be sure to talk to your daughter’s healthcare provider about CERVARIX. CERVARIX is a vaccine that helps to protect against the 2 HPV types that cause the most cervical cancer and is approved for use in girls and young women ages 9-25.

As you consider vaccination with CERVARIX for your daughter, here are answers to some questions you may have.

What causes cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual contact or intercourse.

Does all HPV cause cervical cancer?

There are many types of HPV. Some cause cancer and some do not. There are 2 HPV types (16 and 18) that cause 70% of cervical cancers.

Could my daughter be at risk for cervical cancer?

Any girl or young woman who becomes infected with cancer-causing HPV types can possibly develop cervical cancer. Most HPV infections often clear on their own, but for some women it can turn into cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is caused by a virus and is not related to a person’s family history.

How can CERVARIX help protect my daughter from cervical cancer?

If she is between the ages of 9 and 25, one way you can help prevent most cervical cancers is by getting her vaccinated with CERVARIX. Since CERVARIX is not a treatment for cervical cancer, it is important that your daughter starts to get routine cervical cancer screening when recommended by her healthcare provider. It is also important that you and your daughter talk to her healthcare provider about her lifestyle changes.

How is CERVARIX given?

CERVARIX is given as 3 doses over 6 months. In order to get the full benefit of CERVARIX, it is important that your daughter receives all 3 doses. If she misses a dose, talk to her healthcare provider about how to complete the series. Sign up for vaccination reminders here.

Why do I need to help protect my daughter from cervical cancer now?

Cervical cancer is a serious disease. Every year, more than 12,000 women get cervical cancer in the United States. Most young women are exposed to HPV starting in their teens. While cervical cancer may take years to develop, protecting your daughter from the 2 HPV types that cause the most cervical cancers now can help prevent problems later.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports cervical cancer vaccination for girls and young women.

What does CERVARIX do?

CERVARIX is a vaccine that helps to protect against the 2 HPV types that cause most cervical cancers. CERVARIX is your daughter’s shot at helping to stop cervical cancer before it starts.

What are the possible side effects of CERVARIX?

Side effects of CERVARIX include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, upset stomach, and joint pain. For a complete list of possible side effects, ask your daughter’s healthcare provider.

How will I know if CERVARIX is right for my daughter?

Your daughter’s doctor or other healthcare provider can help you decide if CERVARIX is right for her. Make sure you ask about helping to protect your daughter from cervical cancer with CERVARIX at her next visit.

Is CERVARIX available through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program?

Yes. VFC is a federal program that helps families of children 18 and younger who, because of the cost, may not be vaccinated otherwise. VFC helps by giving free vaccines to doctors who serve them. To qualify, the child must be 18 years or younger and meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Is Medicaid eligible
• Does not have health insurance
• Is American Indian or Alaska Native
• Has health insurance that does not include vaccines. (This child must go to a special health center to get CERVARIX.)

Click here for more information about the VFC Program.