By Patrick J. McGrath, OC, PhD, FRSC
Question:
My wife and I have been discussing the HPV vaccination with regard to our 12-year-old daughter. I understand it may prevent some forms of cancer that are caused by sexually transmitted viruses (HPV). I am concerned that having our daughter vaccinated with this will give her the message that it is OK to be sexually promiscuous. My wife disagrees. What do you think?
Dr. Pat responds:
There are over 100 different types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV 6 and 11 cause most genital warts. HPV types 16 and 18 cause most cancers of the cervix in women. HPV also causes cancers of the penis.
Having sex with more partners or with partners who have had different partners increases the chances of getting HPV. HPV may be the most common sexually transmitted disease.
The Canadian government funds the HPV vaccine. Girls between nine and 13 years of age can be offered the vaccination. In Ontario, the vaccine is given to girls in Grade 8. No one is required to be vaccinated.
There is excellent evidence that the HPV vaccination prevents infection of the four types of HPV that cause the most problems. That is why it is better to give the vaccination before girls become sexually active.
The HPV vaccination will not protect against other sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, chlamydia, or gonorrhoea.
A study in Nova Scotia found that almost four of five parents would endorse the vaccine for their children. About the same number of teens were also in favour of taking the vaccine.
There is no evidence that giving the vaccination will increase sexual activity. The studies of sex education have shown that sex education does not increase sexual activity. It may decrease early sexual activity especially if the message encourages delaying sex and having protected sex. Teaching that teenagers should "Just say no" is not effective.
The HPV vaccination will be an excellent opportunity for all parents to discuss sex and health with their daughters and sons. Parents should be talking about sex with their children on a regular basis. It needs to be an ongoing, two-way conversation, not a lecture that is given on different occasions. We cannot force our children to adopt our values but we should discuss with them why we hold the values we do.
It is good that you are discussing this with your wife. Now maybe you (or your wife) should have a chat with your daughter. What does your daughter think?
For more information, see "HPV vaccine seems to be working."
Patrick J. McGrath OC, PhD, FRSC is a clinical psychologist and a researcher. He is Professor of Psychology, Pediatrics, and Psychiatry at Dalhousie University and Vice President - Research at IWK Health Centre in Halifax. He is also the CEO of the Strongest Families Institute, which provides mental health care to families across Canada.
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