Women's Health Alert: HPV Vaccination (6/22/09)

"'That vaccination is for hors!' These were the words of my mother as we left my doctors appointment. She was talking about, Gardasil, a shot my doctor had recommended to me. Gardasil is the leading vaccination for the prevention of the Human Papillomavirus, or HPV, which is a sexually transmitted infection. Now, when I think of a 'hor,' I think of someone who neglects their body and their health. So no mom, Gardasil is not for hors. In fact, anyone who makes the choice of getting vaccinated is someone who is actively trying to live the best life possible."

The paragraph above is an excerpt from an informative speech I gave in my communications class. Since I wish to live the best life possible I decided to get the vaccination on my own. Luckily, my school was offering it for free and I received my second shot (of three shots in total) on June 22. Like any injection it was a bit painful and your upper arm will be sore for a couple days. Besides that, I haven't had any reactions or issues.

You should check with your school's health center or your insurance company and find out if you are eligible for a free HPV vaccination. I support this vaccination because it is the first of its kind. It not only can prevent genital warts, but also can prevent cervical cancer in women. I am not promoting promiscuity but rather living healthy. Practicing safe sex, or even abstinence, are the best ways to avoid pregnancy and prevent sexually transmitted infections.