GARDASIL®

Abnormal cervical cells

Abnormal cervical cells are cells in the lining of the cervix that have changed in appearance. The more severe the cervical abnormality, the more likely it is that cervical cancer could develop in the future.

Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It can be a result of certain high risk types of HPV. Learn more about cervical cancer.

Cervix

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.

Genital HPV (human papillomavirus)

About 30 to 40 types of HPV are known as genital HPV since they affect the genital area. Learn more about HPV.

Genital warts

Genital warts are usually flesh-coloured growths that are caused by certain types of HPV. Learn more about genital warts.

Gynecological exam

A gynecological exam is an examination of a woman by a healthcare professional. During this routine exam, the healthcare professional performs a Pap test to check for abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix.

HPV

HPV stands for human papillomavirus, a common virus that affects both females and males. There are more than 100 types of HPV and most often it does not cause any symptoms and goes away on its own. Others can cause diseases of the genital area.

Pap test

A Pap test, also known as a Pap smear, is part of the gynecological exam and helps detect abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix before they have a chance to become precancers or cervical cancer. Learn more about Pap tests.

Precancers

Precancers are highly abnormal cervical cells that have a high likelihood of becoming cervical cancer.

Uterus

The uterus is a muscular organ located in the pelvic cavity of females in which the fertilized egg implants and develops. It is also called the womb.

Vagina

The vagina is a 3- to 4-inch tube. Its upper part ends at the cervix and the lower part opens to the outside onto the vulva, the external female genitals.

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT GARDASIL®

GARDASIL® is a vaccine indicated in girls and women 9-26 years of age, for the prevention of infection caused by HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18, and the following diseases associated with these types: cervical cancer, abnormal and precancerous cervical cells, vulvar and vaginal cancers, abnormal and precancerous vulvar and vaginal cells, and genital warts. GARDASIL® is indicated in boys and men 9-26 years of age for the prevention of infection caused by HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18, and genital warts caused by HPV types 6 and 11. 

GARDASIL® helps prevent these diseases but it does not treat them. And just like all vaccines, GARDASIL® may not fully protect everyone who gets it. GARDASIL® does not protect against all types of HPV. Duration of protection over the long term has not been established. Vaccination with GARDASIL® is not recommended during pregnancy. GARDASIL® may cause side effects and allergic reactions.

Even if you get vaccinated with GARDASIL®, it is still important for women to continue having regular Pap tests.

Only a healthcare professional can decide if GARDASIL® is right for you, your son or your daughter.

Read the Patient Product Information or the Prescribing Information for more information.