25/07/2025
Recently, several patients—both men and women—have been misled by certain clinics. They were told that if they tested positive for HPV (the Human Papillomavirus, commonly known as the “cervical cancer virus”), they must get the HPV vaccine to “treat” it. Some were even told they must get a booster dose 5 years after completing the 3-dose HPV vaccine schedule… I could only sigh on the spot.
Let’s clear up some common misconceptions about HPV:
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1. Not being “promiscuous” doesn’t mean you’re immune to HPV.
2. Although often dubbed the “cervical cancer virus,” HPV doesn’t only affect women. Men can also be infected, increasing their risk of warts, a**l cancer, throat cancer, and pe**le cancer.
3. Both females and males can receive the HPV vaccine.
4. HPV testing isn’t limited to Pap smears (cervical swabs); it can also be detected through urine tests—otherwise, how would men be tested for HPV? 😅
5. The HPV vaccine given in government schools only protects against 2 strains of the virus and is only given to female students. For broader protection, one can choose to self-pay for the Gardasil 9 vaccine, which covers 9 HPV strains.
6. Gardasil 9 was only introduced in Malaysia in 2017. So if you were vaccinated before 2017, you likely received a vaccine that protected against only 2 or 4 strains. You can still receive Gardasil 9 for more comprehensive protection.
7. If you’re infected with a high-risk HPV strain, it is recommended to see a gynecologist for a thorough examination. Sometimes, a tissue sample may be taken to check for cell changes (dysplasia), which allows for early intervention before it progresses to cancer.
8. If you’re infected with a low-risk HPV strain, you do not need medication.
• First, there is no medication for it.
• Second, your immune system usually clears the virus naturally within 2–3 years.
• Third, if warts develop, they can be removed by electrocautery or cryotherapy.
9. The HPV vaccine is not a treatment for existing HPV infections. Vaccines are for prevention, not treatment—that’s why it’s called a vaccine.
10. According to medical guidelines, it is recommended that women aged 30 to 65 do an HPV DNA test every 5 years, a Pap smear every 3 years, or co-testing (both tests together) every 5 years.
Please note: Guidelines are only recommendations, not strict rules. Each patient is different, and doctors will tailor screening and treatment based on individual circumstances.
HPV vaccines, HPV test and Pap smear are available in our clinic. We also have female doctor if you are more comfortable to speak to a female doctor. Please do not hesitate to contact us through Whatsapp 012-9367892 if you wish to speak to us.
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