A: Responsible people catch STDs too you know! And many women with HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), which causes genital warts and cervical cancer, are 'responsible.' All you need is one sexual partner to catch it! HPV affects both women and men. You can even catch it while using condoms! Anyone who has any kind of sexual activity involving genital contact with an infected person can get HPV - intercourse isn't necessary. Many people who may have HPV may not show any signs or symptoms, so they can pass the virus on without even knowing it. HPV is easily transmitted. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 20 million people in the United States already had HPV in 2005. 74% of cases occur in 15-24 year olds. According to the CDC, the only way you can totally protect yourself against HPV is to avoid any sexual activity that involves genital contact. HPV Types 6, 11, 16, and 18 account for the majority of HPV-related clinical diseases. HPV Types 16 and 18 cause 70% of cervical cancer cases, and HPV Types 6 and 11 cause 90% of genital warts cases. Being vaccinated with the new vaccine, GARDASIL, before coming into contact with a person who has HPV may help protect you against HPV Types 6, 11, 16, and 18. I'm sure if you ask any woman with HPV she would say to get your daughter vaccinated and protect her from future heartache and painful surgery. Some HPV carriers see it as a cancer time-bomb, which causes worry and stress. However, note that GARDASIL may not fully protect everyone and does not prevent all types of cervical cancer, so it is important to continue regular cervical cancer screenings. Only a doctor can advise whether GARDASIL is right for your daughter, so please consult your doctor.

Play Safe!