The human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for 99% of cervical cancers, and vaccines are now available that make it possible to protect girls before they become sexually active. However, vaccinating schoolgirls against a virus that is contracted through sexual contact is a controversial topic, provoking questions from young women and their parents. To encourage young women to accept this potentially life-saving vaccine, it is important that GPs and practice nurses are able to answer patients’ questions about HPV.
