Is it worth it to take the HPV vaccination still if I have it?
I’ve only had two partners but I found out last year that I have the high risk HPV that can cause cervical cancer. Dr. recommended I take the Gardasil shot and since I had insurance at the time I thought why not? I had two doses already and I’m due for my 3rd final shot next month.
The problem is, is that I don’t have insurance anymore because I was laid off and the shot is like $300! I have another check up to make sure I don’t need LEEP surgery which is like another $100–200.
Is it worth it to take it? I already have a strain of HPV and even though I’m not married, my bf and I are very serious and plan on marrying one day in the future although not any time soon…
I don’t know if I should just pay up out of pocket for that expensive shot. If I were married would you still suggest the final shot? I turn 26 in 2 months and I know they said after 26 it’s too late.
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It would probably help protect you against other strains of HPV, even though it won’t “cure” you of the one you already have.
It will help protect against other strains. The age 26 recommendation just has to do with the ages of women who were tested during the trials before it was released into the market. It isn’t that it actually is less effective. Except to say that most women by 26 if they haven’t had the shot have already been exposed to HPV.
I think it’s a toss up in your case. I mean, you already did two out of the three. I wonder did you ask if there is a cheaper price for self pay? Also, how long between the second and third can you wait and it’s still effective regardless of age? I don’t know the answer.
No matter what you will need to get a PAP smear at minimum every year forever since you already had bad cells and you know they are the bad strain.
I doubt I was helpful.
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I have a question. The doctor recommended you take Gardasil after he diagnosed you with the HPV? Or, was it before?
I would get it. I would also ask about the price again. I got the Gardasil series years ago and I was quoted less than that if my insurance didn’t cover it. The Gardasil vaccine protects against more than one strain, so even if the strain you have is one of the ones covered, you would still gain protection from other strains.
Thanks everyone. I called planned parenthood and they had one for $145, pricey but at least it won’t be over $350
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