Protect your sexual health! Now all Planned Paenthood of Northeast Ohio health centers now offer Gardasil, the only vaccine that can protect you from the four strains of the HPV virus that cause over 70% of cervical cancer.

Locate the Planned Parenthood Health Center nearest you for more information about the HPV vaccine Gardasil, or to schedule an appointment. Request an appointment online!

The HPV vaccine represents a major breakthrough in the prevention of cervical cancer.  Each year approximately 10,000 cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed in the United States, and 4,000 American women die from the disease.  Worldwide, cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women.

In 2006, the FDA approved Gardasil, the first vaccine that prevents four strains of HPV that cause 70% of cervical cancer cases and genital warts. The vaccine is most effective if administered before the onset of sexual activity, but is effective for all individuals who have not been exposed to HPV types 6, 11, 16 or 18, the most dangerous strains. It is a series of three injections administered within six months. It is estimated that at least 70 percent of all sexually active individuals have been exposed to HPV.

Gardasil will not prevent all forms of cervical cancer, so it's important for women to continue getting regular Pap tests. Practicing safer sex (using condoms) reduces the risk of contracting HPV and other sexually transmitted infections.

Cost

Most insurance plans now cover Gardasil. Contact your health insurance provider to verify coverage. The Vaccine for Children (VFC) program also provides free or low-cost vaccines to children and adolescents younger than age 19 or those who are eligible for Medicaid. Contact your local health department for more information on this program.

Individuals age 19 and older who have no health insurance and meet financial criteria may qualify for the Merck Vaccine Patient Assistance Program to receive the vaccine at no charge. Contact one of the Planned Parenthood health centers listed above for complete details.

To make an appointment or for more information about Gardasil, contact your local Health Center directly or call 1-800-230-PLAN to be connected to the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.

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