Personal stories about the HPV vaccine

These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Carmen, mom of 10-year-old Lupe: I want my daughter to be protected against HPV, but I was worried about how to talk to her about this vaccine. I didn't want to talk to her about sex or STDs, because she seemed too young. Then the nurse at the doctor's office said my daughter needed to have other vaccines and we could start them all at the same time. I told Lupe that all of these shots would help keep her from getting sick both now and when she is older.

Rhonda, mom of 19-year-old Simone: My daughter is away at her first year of college. We talked about safe sex before she left for school and I trust that she will make smart choices. When I told her about the vaccine, she told me she isn't having sex yet and doesn't want to get the vaccine. At this point, all I can do is give her the information and hope she gets the vaccine when she is ready.

Brad, dad of 12-year-old Olivia: It's just me and Olivia at home. I wasn't sure I could answer all of her questions about sex, so we are taking a sex education class together. Talking to her about a vaccine to prevent an STD in the future is a good way for us to start talking about safe sex.

Janice, mom of 9-year-old Courtney: My daughter is young, and the HPV vaccine is still new. I want her to be protected, but I decided to wait until she is a few years older to make this decision.