First, some background. HPV vaccines are recommended for use with all adolescents and young adults between the ages of 11 and 26. (HPV vaccines can actually be given as young as age nine). Why so young? The idea is to vaccinate and offer protection prior to the onset of sexual activity. Also, the vaccines generate a stronger response from the immune system of younger people, so the teen years are an ideal time to immunize against HPV.
As to your question, there is no evidence at all that young people who receive an HPV vaccine are more likely to have earlier or riskier sex. In fact, a recently published study (Bednarczyk, Pediatrics) that followed nearly 1,400 girls who were vaccinated against HPV at age 11 found –compared to girls of similar age who did not receive the vaccine- they were no more likely to engage in sex, become pregnant, or be diagnosed with an sexually transmitted infection. We often use the “seat belt” analogy here: just as wearing a seat belt won’t cause someone to suddenly drive faster or recklessly, neither will an HPV vaccine lead someone to become sexually active or be unprotected when they do.
Many parents also find that getting the HPV shot is a good time for discussions of sexually transmitted infections, and about sex in general.
By the way, the HPV vaccine is also recommended for boys.
We know that the HPV vaccine is safe for young people. Millions of doses of HPV vaccines have been safely given around the world. In some places, we are already seeing a reduction in HPV infections and in conditions associated with cervical cancer. If you want to read more, read ASHA’s HPV Vaccine FAQ.
–J. Dennis Fortenberry, MD, MS
Indiana University School of Medicine