Should 11-Year-Old Girls Get HPV Shots?

At 11 years old, it is generally recommended that girls receive the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine. This is because the vaccine is most effective when administered before the onset of sexual activity, which is typically around this age for many girls. The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical cancer, as well as other cancers and genital warts.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that preteens (both girls and boys) receive the HPV vaccine at the age of 11 or 12. However, it can be given as early as age 9. It is important for parents or guardians to discuss the vaccine with their healthcare provider to understand its benefits, the vaccination schedule, and any potential side effects.

Personal Experience: Should I Vaccinate My 11-Year-Old Daughter against HPV with Gardasil?

As a responsible parent, it is crucial to consider the long-term health benefits of vaccinating your child. Cervical cancer runs in my family, and given this family history, I felt it was important to protect my daughter from the most common forms of HPV. I initially decided to wait until she turned 12 to ensure I had proper information and understood the vaccine thoroughly. Despite the fact that the doctor stated there was no direct link to the missed periods experienced after the vaccine, I still reported these as a possible side effect. Ultimately, I would have made the decision to vaccinate her at age 11, knowing the potential risks and benefits.

While my daughter had only experienced mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, my son received his shots at 13 due to financial constraints. However, he only had a brief period of soreness and no other significant side effects. It's important to note that HPV can affect men too and can lead to debilitating health issues. Therefore, it is recommended to vaccinate boys as well, to ensure comprehensive protection.

Gardasil: A Personal Decision for My Son

My son, at the age of 11, was the first time we allowed him to make a personal decision about his vaccination. Both my son and I were given age-appropriate information about the Gardasil vaccine. After careful consideration, my son opted to get vaccinated. Although he struggled with the occasional pain associated with the flu shot, he likes to stay protected. Another interesting decision we made was allowing him to choose whether or not to have his baby canines removed at the age of 9. The dentist decided to proceed with the extraction, and it took a month for his permanent teeth to grow in.

Conclusion

The decision to vaccinate your child against HPV at age 11 is a crucial one, not only for the well-being of the child but for the future of public health. While side effects such as missed periods or soreness at the injection site can occur, the long-term protection against HPV-related cancers and other health issues is well worth the temporary discomfort. Parents should discuss this with their healthcare providers and ensure they are fully informed before making a decision. The earlier the vaccination, the better the protection, especially given the effectiveness of the vaccine before sexual activity begins.