Stay One Step Ahead with the HPV Vaccine in Singapore
HPV (human papillomavirus) is more common than many people realise. It’s a virus that spreads easily through skin-to-skin contact and can lead to cervical cancer, genital warts, and other serious conditions.
The good news? You can protect yourself, and your loved ones, with the HPV vaccine in Singapore.
At Healthway Medical, we offer the HPV vaccine in Singapore to help you stay one step ahead of HPV-related health risks. Whether you're a concerned parent, a proactive young adult, or someone looking to safeguard their future health, getting a HPV vaccine is your trusted defence.
What Is the HPV Vaccine?
Understanding What HPV Is
HPV, or human papillomavirus, refers to a group of more than 100 related viruses. It’s one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. While many types of HPV go away on their own without causing issues, some strains can lead to serious health problems, including cervical, anal, throat, and other genital cancers, as well as genital warts.
HPV spreads primarily through intimate physical contact, often during sexual activity, and most people will contract it at some point in their lives without even knowing it. That’s why vaccination plays such a crucial role in prevention, especially before any exposure to the virus.
The role of HPV Vaccine
Understanding HPV is only the first step. The real power lies in prevention and that's where the HPV vaccine plays a crucial role. By priming your immune system before any exposure to the virus, the vaccine helps block the high-risk strains that most commonly cause cervical and other HPV-related cancers.
The HPV vaccine is your body’s shield against nine types of human papillomavirus—including the strains most likely to cause cervical cancer and genital warts. It offers broad protection that’s especially important for preventing HPV-related cancers.
This vaccine doesn’t cure HPV infections you may already have, but it helps your immune system stop future infections before they start. HPV vaccination is a long-term investment in your health and an effective tool in the fight against cervical cancer, far outweighing the potential cost of treatment and long-term care if the infection leads to cancer.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine isn’t just for young girls, it’s for everyone. HPV affects both men and women, and vaccinating across all genders strengthens community protection. Getting vaccinated helps protect you from several types of cancer and prevents the spread of the virus to others.
- Girls and boys aged 9 to 14 as part of the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule
- Teens and young adults aged 15 to 26 who missed earlier doses
- Adults up to 45 who haven’t been vaccinated before
- People with weakened immune systems
- Anyone sexually active and unvaccinated
HPV doesn't discriminate, it affects both women and men. While it's often associated with cervical cancer, HPV can also lead to cancers of the throat, anus, and penis, as well as genital warts in men. Vaccinating males not only protects them from these potential health risks but also helps reduce the overall spread of the virus, offering greater community protection.
Why Early HPV Vaccination Matters
Vaccinating early (before exposure to HPV) is the most effective way to reduce your risk. Curious why ages 9 to 14 are considered the golden window for HPV vaccination? Learn why this age range is considered the ideal time for maximum effectiveness, and how early vaccination builds lasting immunity in our featured article.
Still, even beyond this age, it’s never too late to protect yourself or your loved ones.
When and How Often Should You Get Vaccinated?
The recommended HPV vaccination schedule depends on your age at the time of your first dose:
- Ages 9 to 14: Two doses, spaced 6 to 12 months apart
- Ages 15 and above: Three doses given over six months (at 0, 2, and 6 months)
It’s important to complete the full course for optimal protection. If you’ve missed a dose, speak to your doctor about how to resume the schedule. The earlier you start, the stronger your immune response - and the more effective your protection against HPV-related diseases.
For adults considering the HPV vaccine, it’s never too late to take action. Even if you are already sexually active, vaccination can still provide significant protection against strains of HPV you haven’t been exposed to. The HPV vaccine is approved for adults up to age 45 in Singapore and is especially important for those with new or multiple partners, or anyone looking to reduce their long-term cancer risk. Speak with a doctor to determine if vaccination is right for you.
What to Expect During and After the HPV Vaccination?
Getting HPV vaccinated is a simple and safe process. During your appointment, a doctor or nurse will explain the procedure, answer any questions you may have, and then administer the vaccine via a quick injection in your upper arm. The entire process usually takes just a few minutes and requires no downtime. You will be able to resume your day as normal.
Common side effects may include:
- Mild pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
- Headache or fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Nausea or dizziness in some cases
These side effects are generally mild and resolve within a day or two. Serious side effects are extremely rare. If you feel unsure about anything before or after the vaccination, our friendly healthcare professionals are always here to support and guide you.
Book Your HPV Vaccination in Singapore
At Healthway Medical, we make it easy for you and your loved ones to get protected. With conveniently located clinics across Singapore, experienced doctors, and a patient-first approach, your HPV vaccination experience will be smooth, supportive, and stress-free.
Whether you’re planning for your child, yourself, or a loved one, now is the time to act. Don’t wait. Take charge of your health and help prevent HPV-related cancers. After all, the real price may be in delaying that decision: missing out on protection, carrying unnecessary worry, or confronting preventable health issues down the line.
Schedule your HPV Vaccination Today
