I need parent's opinion...

[ChamomilleCame]

Ok, so tomorrow, I'm getting the stupid Gardasil vaccine. It allegedly proven to prevent HPV and cervical cancer. I've been doing a lot of research on it and found that these vaccines are a little hazy. In the commercials (released a few years ago) the spokes person mentions that the vaccine prevents cervical cancer, but in this article, the developer of the vaccines states that the vaccine will not prevent cervical cancer http://truthaboutgardasil.org/garda...vents-abnormal-pap-tests-not-cervical-cancer/ . CNN even did a section on the vaccine in which the spokes person says that there are many side affects to this vaccine (and I agree, already having two of the three injected ). The vaccine hurts like no other that I've had. I felt so weak for like a week. It's not a pleasant experience. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_13plsrydPY . This was released in 2008. It's 2012 and people are still complaining about the side effects. Many vaccines are dangerous, as well as beneficial. My friend's cousin died as an infant because the doctors gave him shots too early. Yes, there could have been a birth defect of the child, but that doesn't stop the fact that many vaccines are poisons. Here's another video warning people again about Gardasil http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBAv1H0-dYc&feature=related this one is the most interesting I found. I think one of the most important thing for me when it comes to this vaccine is that young girls are going to think they are unstoppable against the HPV and cervical cancer. This is false. As stated in the previous video, the vaccine only protects from 4/18 HPVs. It gives a sense of "security", when the truth is that it really doesn't! Now since many people have this vaccine, they're going to think they are totally immune to this virus, when even in the commercial there is a clear sign that says "Gardasil may not fully protect everyone". Anyway, I was raised better than to go off with anyone. My mother clearly does not know me if she thinks I need this shot. Maybe some girls aren't raised like me, but there is something called getting checked once in a while at the doctors because you never know. Even people that are vaccinated with everything on the counter need to get checked. I think it's better than to go take that last shot. My mom says I am an ignorant for believing this, but it is the truth. I asked her if she had read any information and she said yes. I don't believe her. She probably read it off the Merck website, which is obviously going to promote the vaccine. I think she is the ignorant one, along with the people that don't do research! It really bothers me. Besides, cervical cancer is not one of the largest leading cause of death. If they want to make a good vaccine, make one from the leading causes of death. These are just my words. I am only 15 and need opinions. Thank you!

 

[Olimpia]

Well, I don't sleep with just anyone either and I still got the vaccines, and I still go in for a check-up once a year. I got them years before I engaged in any sexual activity, as this is when it's most effective. 12,000 women get cervical cancer a year, and even if it's not the most likely cancer to kill me, I don't think it's a waste to get protected against a few strains of HPV that may give me cancer in the future. It's just one more thing I can do to stay a healthy young woman, including going to the doctor and being responsible with my boyfriend.

I don't think that getting this vaccine in any way makes you a loose girl, and I do think it's a little dramatic to make that leap. It's like the people who say that girls that take birth control pills are constantly in bed with someone. For loads of women, the steady dose of hormones treat several different conditions (from hormonal imbalances, ovarian cysts, severe periods, severe PMS, etc.) and is part of a precautionary routine (like for preventing the cysts, which can be bad). It's not a licence to sleep around if you don't want it to be.

I'm not a mother, but I vaccinate my dogs against everything and will vaccinate my children against as much as possible. The benefits outweigh the risks, in my opinion, and dealing with a sore shoulder a couple days sure beats being sick with something worse down the line, even if it's unlikely!

 

[laurie]

I am both a mother and a grandmother and I agree with Olimpia. Any kind of cancer that you may be able to prevent it worth some pain. I am not familiar with the shots, but I am big on prevention, so I would follow Olimpia.

Well, I don't sleep with just anyone either and I still got the vaccines, and I still go in for a check-up once a year. I got them years before I engaged in any sexual activity, as this is when it's most effective. 12,000 women get cervical cancer a year, and even if it's not the most likely cancer to kill me, I don't think it's a waste to get protected against a few strains of HPV that may give me cancer in the future. It's just one more thing I can do to stay a healthy young woman, including going to the doctor and being responsible with my boyfriend.

I don't think that getting this vaccine in any way makes you a loose girl, and I do think it's a little dramatic to make that leap. It's like the people who say that girls that take birth control pills are constantly in bed with someone. For loads of women, the steady dose of hormones treat several different conditions (from hormonal imbalances, ovarian cysts, severe periods, severe PMS, etc.) and is part of a precautionary routine (like for preventing the cysts, which can be bad). It's not a licence to sleep around if you don't want it to be.

I'm not a mother, but I vaccinate my dogs against everything and will vaccinate my children against as much as possible. The benefits outweigh the risks, in my opinion, and dealing with a sore shoulder a couple days sure beats being sick with something worse down the line, even if it's unlikely!

 

[sandrachameleon]

I think you should raise your concerns with your doctor. And if needs be get a second and third opinion from other knowledgable doctors. Ask them about ALL known side-effects, and what it does or does not protect you against. Your pharmacy professional (Im assuming your pharmacists are well educated) should also be able to provide information.

"research" on websites, especially ones like YouTube, is not going to provide you with what you need to be truly informed, and neither will asking on this forum.
In part because there will be many opinions from people who havent any real understanding or knowledge, and in part because you are young and not yet wise enough to see through all the bullcrap (this is not meant to put you down, just that old people have learned lessons the hard way that you have not yet had to face).

Now all that said, it seems to me that probable protection from 4 out of 18 is better than 0 out of 18. And did you know that two of the 4 account for 70% fo all the cervical cancers? So really even if you only got benefit from those two, it would be a big benefit.
Yes, You will need check-ups regardless - so what? and Yes, you may have minor side effects like TEMPORARY soreness - again so what? You're not a baby, you can handle it. If there are only minor side effects, what are you worried about? Getting this shot really has nothing whatsoever to do with your choice of sex partner (I am presuming that you will eventually have at least one sex partner in your life).

You want to make an informed choice. Not a choice based on suspicion, youTube, lack of understanding, what friends say, or fear of short-term discomfort.

So talk to EDUCATED people, like doctors. Or at least got to websites that are more reliable, like the Journal of the American Medical Association. Or your National Cancer Institute (which is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services), your Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - all of which consider the vaccine to be safe and effective BTW.

As far as I know Guillain-Barré Syndrome is the only thing to be afraid of regarding any vaccine, and its not even for sure related to vaccines.

 

[Trillian]

I saw a segment on it on a show a couple of years ago, basically it will prevent something like 2% of the people who have the shot from getting cervical cancer. Due to things like you say, that it is effective against only certain types, and for certain people, and certain situations.

Don't think too much about the side effects. They are always massively over-stated. These things are very heavily checked and tested before they reach the market. I used to work for Pfizer, I know how long it takes!

You need to make your own decision, and you are right to make that an informed decision. Please don't be waylaid by scaremongering. The hoopla caused by that one idiot doctor over the MMR vaccine has caused many needless deaths and panic and his research and study have been comprehensively disproven.

 

[DanSB]

I agree it is best to ask these questions to a doctor or pharmacist that is well versed with the product.

Remember they can't prove or say with 100% certainty any treatment will be effective or will not harm you. They are speaking in what is likely and what has been observed. They can tell you there is no observed side effect, or that there is an observed benefit.

Doctors are not all knowing no matter what many of them like to believe they are no different than anyone else with the exception of the fact they have made it their life to know about human health matters. Because of this their opinions (and that is all it is in most cases) should be given a bit more weight than some guy who read a book, or whose uncle's friends kid got sick.

I personally don't trust doctors and always research independently opposing views and get second or third opinions when it is something potentially life altering. I have and would talk to three or four different doctors who aren't affiliated with the drug companies and get their takes. Ask them if what they would recommend for their children or themselves.

 

[okiroo]

Well, I don't sleep with just anyone either and I still got the vaccines, and I still go in for a check-up once a year. I got them years before I engaged in any sexual activity, as this is when it's most effective. 12,000 women get cervical cancer a year, and even if it's not the most likely cancer to kill me, I don't think it's a waste to get protected against a few strains of HPV that may give me cancer in the future. It's just one more thing I can do to stay a healthy young woman, including going to the doctor and being responsible with my boyfriend.

I don't think that getting this vaccine in any way makes you a loose girl, and I do think it's a little dramatic to make that leap. It's like the people who say that girls that take birth control pills are constantly in bed with someone. For loads of women, the steady dose of hormones treat several different conditions (from hormonal imbalances, ovarian cysts, severe periods, severe PMS, etc.) and is part of a precautionary routine (like for preventing the cysts, which can be bad). It's not a licence to sleep around if you don't want it to be.

I'm not a mother, but I vaccinate my dogs against everything and will vaccinate my children against as much as possible. The benefits outweigh the risks, in my opinion, and dealing with a sore shoulder a couple days sure beats being sick with something worse down the line, even if it's unlikely!

I also agree, i took these shots years before huggin up aswell. I also took birthcontrol for over a year(and recently stoped). it's good for your skin- i was alot less mean on my period(i've become a monster!)- and i always started at the same time same day everymonth. im going to try to get on something a little better though, hopefully no kids for 8+ years!


I dont remember the shot hurting that much or feeling bad afterwards. it was just a little sore for an afternoon(like most shots.)

 

[Elizadolots]

As a mother of a soon to be 18 year old I'll just say that my husband and I decided not to get these shots for our daughter. Our reasons were pretty much what you articulated ChamomilleCame.

But, I'm not your Mom and to some extent, you have to realize she is still the one charged with making these decisions for you. Plus, you've already taken 2 of the injections. It seems like you have invested enough in this process that it might be best to see it through.

But this is really between you and your Mom and your doctor.

 

[sandrachameleon]

Plus, you've already taken 2 of the injections. It seems like you have invested enough in this process that it might be best to see it through.

this is a very good point. Any possible downside from getting the vaccine is likely already in play. May as well finish what has been started and at least get some benefit?

 

[MollyT]

It looks like you have received some great advice so far on here. I got pregnant with my son when I was just 17. At my 6 week checkup after I had him, my Dr found abnormal cells on my cervix. After a biopsy showed that they were precancerous, I had to have most of my cervix removed. It was horribly painful and made the pregnancy with my twin girls 5 years later very scary, since I had been told I wouldn't be able to carry another baby past 4 months, and now I was pregnant with two! My Doctor didn't think it was HPV, and I have never had any other symptoms or cancer scares, but I can tell you that cervical cancer is definitely something to worry about. Women die from it. Even if you are lucky like I was, it is still a HUGE pain to go through. Plus, it only complicates future pregnancies. If I could have got a shot that *might* have lowered my risks of going through that, I definitely would have. I will also be getting the shots for my girls when they are a bit older. You never know if you are one of the 2%. I always say better safe than sorry. JMO. Good luck!

 

[pssh]

I personally got them. I had no side effects except the sore arm. I certainly didnt start sleeping around after. (I've only slept with one person who I've been dating for 5 years. If all goes as planned, marriage is in our future) My mother also didnt think that I was going to start. She knows I have a good head on my shoulders, but that I also am not invincible. Personally, I am for vaccinations as long as its an informed decision that both the patient and doctor decide is right for the person. For me, the possible benefits outweigh the risks.

Any of these concerns your have should be discussed fully with your doctor and mother. Speaking with them together may make a side of the equation you had not previously seen very clear.

That in mind, you already have two shots. Like said above, you are already invested in the whole thing. Taking the third wouldn't be much of a leap.

 

[Miss Lily]

My daughter had the vaccines when they were first offered here in the UK, as did most of her class mates. I don't know if the story of Jade Goody made the new in the US, but it was her very sad story (she died of cervical cancer) that prompted us to go ahead with the vaccines. I hate having the cervical smear tests every 3 years as I find it incredibly painful. I seriously considered not going to my last one, but then I remembered Jade and realised that those few moments of pain could actually potentially save my life.

 

[Elizadolots]

Miss Lily, your daughter should still get pap smears. The vaccine only protects against 2 forms of HPV, I believe there are 4 or 5 which are known to cause cervical cancer.

 

[Miss Lily]

Oh, yes, she will do when she is old enough. I shall make sure she goes for her smear tests! She knows it's important.