The FDA approved a vaccine, targeted to women between the ages of 9 and 26, that would protect them from HPV, which is a leading cause of cervical cancer. They are recommending that most girls get the vaccine at ages 11-12 (before they are sexually active).

Any thoughts?

Link to MSNBC story: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/13612899/

I'm in the health care field (RN) and my best friend is an OB/GYN. There really is no reason NOT to have daughters vaccinated.

My girls definitely will be, no question. Good news!!

Very good idea. I'm all for anything that will help alleviate sexually transmitted diseases.

If I have daughters, they'll be vaccinated. Assuming they aren't born with it having gotten it from me. :grouphug:

I'm an RN who has suffered from breast cancer. My daughter definitely will get this. What a blessing to have it.

NancyRN

As someone who HAD cervical cancer and a "modified radical hysterectomy" at age 30, I think anyone who DOESN'T insist their daughter have it--early--should be considered to be endangering that child.

Things have improved in the past 30 years, but it was NOT a pleasant experience.

Yep mine too will get it. My 15 y/o is going for her first pap smear Monday the 3rd and we WILL be asking about it.

My best friend's sister developed cervical cancer at 19. Later breast cancer and died before 30.

Wouldn't you feel terrible as a parent if your daughter died from cervical cancer that a vaccination was available for?

M

Yeah, I didn't want to jump in too early, but I am totally for the vaccine. Obviously some people are either against it or wary of it, because it vaccinates against an STD. My mom had cervical cancer 13 years ago. Why let your daughter suffer because you're afraid a vaccine might make her have sex? (which it still doesnt make her sterile, or invulnerable to other STDs)

What happens if the young female already has HPV? Would the vaccine not work?

Hope this isnt a crazy question.

Finally... something for woman and the fight against cancer!!!! Can I get it to??? LOL I have never had HPV, nd I am not trying to get cervical cancer...

I have a 13 year old granddaughter who lives with me. I am going to ask her doctor about it at her back to school checkup.

I think it is supposed to be made available next year, but definitely ask your doctors! I know it is FDA-approved, so the wait should be short.