{"id":153,"date":"2025-02-18T07:31:26","date_gmt":"2025-02-18T07:31:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/obgyn.highpoweredgraphics.com\/?page_id=153"},"modified":"2025-02-24T01:51:45","modified_gmt":"2025-02-24T01:51:45","slug":"pap-smears-and-hpv-immunizations","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/newdayobgyn.com\/?page_id=153","title":{"rendered":"PAP Smears and HPV immunizations"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\">[vc_row][vc_column]\n\t\t\t<!-- START Slider 3 REVOLUTION SLIDER 6.7.34 --><p class=\"rs-p-wp-fix\"><\/p>\n\t\t\t<rs-module-wrap id=\"rev_slider_3_1_wrapper\" data-source=\"gallery\" style=\"visibility:hidden;background:transparent;padding:0;margin:0px auto;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;\">\n\t\t\t\t<rs-module id=\"rev_slider_3_1\" style=\"\" data-version=\"6.7.34\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<rs-slides style=\"overflow: hidden; position: absolute;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<rs-slide style=\"position: absolute;\" data-key=\"rs-6\" data-title=\"Slide\" data-in=\"o:0;\" data-out=\"a:false;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/newdayobgyn.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/revslider\/sr6\/assets\/assets\/dummy.png\" alt=\"\" title=\"South Florida OBGYN Alicia Acon\" width=\"2000\" height=\"812\" class=\"rev-slidebg tp-rs-img rs-lazyload\" data-lazyload=\"\/\/obgyn.highpoweredgraphics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/South-Florida-OBGYN-Alicia-Acon.jpg\" data-panzoom=\"d:10000;ss:135%;se:100;\" data-no-retina>\n<!---->\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-slide>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<rs-slide style=\"position: absolute;\" data-key=\"rs-7\" data-title=\"Slide\" data-in=\"o:0;\" data-out=\"a:false;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/newdayobgyn.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/revslider\/sr6\/assets\/assets\/dummy.png\" alt=\"\" title=\"Obstetrics Gynecology Dr. Alicia Acon Miami Broward Florida\" width=\"2000\" height=\"811\" class=\"rev-slidebg tp-rs-img rs-lazyload\" data-lazyload=\"\/\/obgyn.highpoweredgraphics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Obstetrics-Gynecology-Dr.-Alicia-Acon-Miami-Broward-Florida.jpg\" data-panzoom=\"d:10000;ss:100;se:135%;\" data-no-retina>\n<!---->\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-slide>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<rs-slide style=\"position: absolute;\" data-key=\"rs-8\" data-title=\"Slide\" data-in=\"o:0;\" data-out=\"a:false;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/newdayobgyn.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/revslider\/sr6\/assets\/assets\/dummy.png\" alt=\"\" title=\"New Day OBGYN Broward County Florida\" width=\"2000\" height=\"814\" class=\"rev-slidebg tp-rs-img rs-lazyload\" data-lazyload=\"\/\/obgyn.highpoweredgraphics.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/New-Day-OBGYN-Broward-County-Florida.jpg\" data-panzoom=\"d:10000;ss:135%;se:100;\" data-no-retina>\n<!---->\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-slide>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/rs-slides>\n\t\t\t\t<\/rs-module>\n\t\t\t\t<script>\n\t\t\t\t\tsetREVStartSize({c: 'rev_slider_3_1',rl:[1240,1024,778,480],el:[700],gw:[1800],gh:[700],type:'standard',justify:'',layout:'fullwidth',mh:\"0\"});if (window.RS_MODULES!==undefined && window.RS_MODULES.modules!==undefined && window.RS_MODULES.modules[\"revslider31\"]!==undefined) {window.RS_MODULES.modules[\"revslider31\"].once = false;window.revapi3 = undefined;if (window.RS_MODULES.checkMinimal!==undefined) window.RS_MODULES.checkMinimal()}\n\t\t\t\t<\/script>\n\t\t\t<\/rs-module-wrap>\n\t\t\t<!-- END REVOLUTION SLIDER -->\n[vc_empty_space][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;264&#8243; img_size=&#8221;550&#215;275&#8243; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css_animation=&#8221;zoomIn&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]When it comes to safeguarding your health, few things are as important as preventive care. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, and certain strains of it are responsible for the majority of cervical cancers. Fortunately, we have powerful tools to fight back: the HPV vaccine and regular Pap smears.<\/p>\n<p>HPV vaccines play a crucial role in cancer prevention, particularly cervical cancer. According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/hpv\/vaccines\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CDC<\/a>, the vaccine can prevent over 90% of HPV-related cancers. Despite its proven effectiveness, many people remain unaware of its importance. Starting the vaccination series early\u2014ideally between the ages of 9 and 12\u2014can provide optimal protection, but it\u2019s also beneficial for teens and young adults who haven\u2019t yet been vaccinated. By getting the HPV vaccine, you\u2019re not only protecting yourself but also contributing to a healthier, cancer-free future for everyone.<\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Clearing Up Misconceptions: Pap Smears vs. Vaginal Exams<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Many patients use the terms \u201cPap smear\u201d and \u201cvaginal exam\u201d interchangeably, but they\u2019re not the same thing. A Pap smear is a specific screening test that detects abnormal cervical cells, which could indicate precancerous changes or cervical cancer. It\u2019s an essential tool for catching issues early, when they\u2019re most treatable.<\/p>\n<p>A vaginal exam, on the other hand, is a broader assessment of the vaginal and pelvic area and doesn\u2019t necessarily include a Pap smear. Both are valuable, but they serve different purposes. That\u2019s why it\u2019s vital to communicate with your provider about your health history and what screenings you need.<\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Keeping Up with Guidelines<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Pap smear guidelines have changed in recent years, so staying informed is key. Depending on your age and health history, you may need testing every three to five years instead of annually. Your provider can help you navigate these recommendations and ensure you\u2019re receiving the best care for your needs.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]\n<h4 class=\"text-gray-900 font-bold leading-rem24px text-rem20px bp600:text-rem25px bp600:leading-rem30px mt-rem32px mb-rem16px break-words \" data-identity=\"headline\"><strong><span style=\"color: #000080;\">Who should get the HPV vaccine?<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p class=\"text-gray-800 my-rem16px text-rem19px leading-rem34px \" data-identity=\"paragraph-element\">Everyone, regardless of sex, should get vaccinated before they\u2019re exposed to HPV through sexual activity. Remember \u2014 the HPV vaccine can only protect you from strains of HPV you haven\u2019t already been exposed to via an infected partner.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-800 my-rem16px text-rem19px leading-rem34px \" data-identity=\"paragraph-element\">The age recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for getting the vaccine reflect this rationale.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"my-rem16px mx-0 pl-[1.25rem] list-disc marker:text-brandBlue-500 marker:pl-rem24px \" data-identity=\"unordered-list\">\n<li class=\"mb-rem12px pl-rem12px text-gray-800 text-rem19px leading-rem34px \"><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Children between ages 11 &amp; 12. <\/strong><\/span>The HPV vaccine is part of the vaccination schedule for children between 11 and 12, but children as young as 9 years old can safely receive it. The goal is to vaccinate children before they become sexually active and risk exposure.<\/li>\n<li class=\"mb-rem12px pl-rem12px text-gray-800 text-rem19px leading-rem34px \"><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Adults up to and including age 26.<\/strong><\/span> The vaccine is also recommended for adults up to age 26. This includes people who started the series as a child, teen or young adult but didn\u2019t finish it.<\/li>\n<li class=\"mb-rem12px pl-rem12px text-gray-800 text-rem19px leading-rem34px \"><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Some adults up to and including age 45<\/strong>:<\/span> In 2018, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) expanded the age range from 26 to 45. The recommendation was based on research that showed the vaccine prevented HPV infections among adults in this age range, too.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"text-gray-800 my-rem16px text-rem19px leading-rem34px \" data-identity=\"paragraph-element\">The age limit for getting vaccinated (first 26 and now 45) is based on the thinking that most people have had sex (and potentially been exposed to multiple strains of HPV) by adulthood. If you\u2019ve already been exposed, the vaccine won\u2019t provide much benefit. Related, not all insurance companies cover the costs of the vaccine past ages 26 or 45.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-800 my-rem16px text-rem19px leading-rem34px \" data-identity=\"paragraph-element\">But this doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t personally benefit from the vaccine if you\u2019re a middle-aged adult. For example, if you\u2019ve had few or no previous partners, getting vaccinated can potentially protect you from HPV if you\u2019re about to start a sexual relationship.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-800 my-rem16px text-rem19px leading-rem34px \" data-identity=\"paragraph-element\">Everyone\u2019s situation is different. Your healthcare provider can advise you based on your sexual history.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"text-gray-900 font-bold leading-rem24px text-rem20px bp600:text-rem25px bp600:leading-rem30px mt-rem32px mb-rem16px break-words \" data-identity=\"headline\"><span style=\"color: #000080;\">Who shouldn\u2019t get the HPV vaccine?<\/span><\/h4>\n<p class=\"text-gray-800 my-rem16px text-rem19px leading-rem34px \" data-identity=\"paragraph-element\">You shouldn\u2019t get the HPV vaccine if you:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"my-rem16px mx-0 pl-[1.25rem] list-disc marker:text-brandBlue-500 marker:pl-rem24px \" data-identity=\"unordered-list\">\n<li class=\"mb-rem12px pl-rem12px text-gray-800 text-rem19px leading-rem34px \"><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Are pregnant<\/strong>.<\/span> There isn\u2019t a lot of research about the vaccine\u2019s safety during pregnancy, so it\u2019s best to get it after having your baby. But if you learn you\u2019re pregnant after getting a shot, don\u2019t worry. The HPV vaccine isn\u2019t associated with pregnancy complications.<\/li>\n<li class=\"mb-rem12px pl-rem12px text-gray-800 text-rem19px leading-rem34px \"><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Had a reaction to a previous dose<\/strong>.<\/span> Tell your healthcare provider if you had a reaction to a previous HPV shot or to the ingredients in it. Inform them of any severe allergies you have, including yeast or latex allergies, which may increase your risk of an allergic reaction.<\/li>\n<li class=\"mb-rem12px pl-rem12px text-gray-800 text-rem19px leading-rem34px \"><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Have moderate to severe illness<\/strong>.<\/span> You may need to wait to get the vaccine until you\u2019re healthy. Ask your provider when it\u2019s safe to get the shot.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;264&#8243; img_size=&#8221;550&#215;275&#8243; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css_animation=&#8221;zoomIn&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]When it comes to safeguarding your health, few things are as important as preventive care. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, and certain strains of it are responsible for the majority of cervical cancers. Fortunately, we have powerful tools to fight back:&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":264,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-full.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-153","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>PAP Smears and HPV immunizations - New Day OBGYN<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"When it comes to safeguarding your health, few things are as important as preventive care. 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