Private HPV vaccine

[emmac3616]

Has anyone had this done privately? Or thought about it?

Today I got the results of my cervical smear, which was interesting because apparently now they first test your sample for HPV and if you are HPV negative they don't check the test sample (as so much cervical cancer is caused by HPV). I am a bit worried about how safe this is... is ALL cervical cancer caused by HPV?!

As I'm HPV negative I am also tempted to pay for the HPV vaccine myself privately (I'm 38yo so DEFINITELY NOT covered on the NHS!) - its quite a lot, over £400, but if it really reduces the risk it might be worth it... the latest HPV vaccine covers 9 of the most dangerous strains apparently which is pretty good...

Thoughts?

I'd do it if I were you. It's approved in the US for women up to age 45. There's a study discussed here that indicates it's highly effective.

www.medpagetoday.com/obgyn/cervicalcancer/75551

Thank you @MissConductUS interesting read... does sound like its worthwhile... great to see the license extends to 45yo. I

Both of my kids (a son and a daughter) have had it. It's been recommended here for quite a while and it's covered by insurance. Neither had any reaction to it.

I'm an RN, so everyone in our family is fully vaccinated. Our system seems more supportive of it than the NHS. I was really surprised to learn that the NHS doesn't vaccinate kids for chicken pox. It's an awful illness.