Which vaccines are important for my sexual health?

Vaccination is a pillar of sexual health, just like screening, PrEP, or condoms.

Getting vaccinated means protecting yourself long-term against several infections that can have serious consequences. Here is an overview of the key vaccines to discuss with our team, including information on their free availability in Quebec through the Quebec Immunization Program (PIQ).

HPV Vaccination (Gardasil® 9)

What does it protect against? The Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is responsible for genital warts (condylomas) and nearly all cases of cervical and anal cancer, as well as the majority of throat and penile cancers.
How is it transmitted? Very easily, through simple intimate skin-to-skin contact.
Who can get it for free (PIQ)? Youth in the 4th grade, MSM aged 26 and under, and immunocompromised individuals.
Why is it important? It is a direct and highly effective protection against several common types of cancer and against genital warts.

Hepatitis A and B Vaccination (often as the combined Twinrix® vaccine)

What do they protect against? Serious viral infections of the liver. Hepatitis B can become chronic and lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.
How are they transmitted? Hepatitis A via the fecal-oral route (including sexual contact); Hepatitis B via bodily fluids and blood.
Who can get them for free (PIQ)? Hepatitis B: everyone with a RAMQ card. Hepatitis A: Several at-risk groups, including MSM and people who inject drugs.
Why is it important? It's the best way to protect your liver's health.

Mpox (monkeypox) Vaccination

What does it protect against? The Mpox virus, which causes often painful skin rashes and severe fatigue.
How is it transmitted? Through close, direct contact with the skin lesions of an infected person.
Who can get it for free (PIQ)? Those most at risk, including MSM and people with multiple partners. This vaccine in only available at public centers.
Why is it important? To avoid a very uncomfortable, sometimes dangerous illness that can leave scars.

The Menveo® vaccine and gonorrhea prevention

The sexual health "bonus": Officially, this vaccine protects against meningitis, but studies have shown it offers moderate cross-protection (about 30-40%) against gonorrhea.
Who can get it for free (PIQ)? Only for individuals at high risk for meningitis, not for gonorrhea prevention.
Why is it important to talk about? With the rise of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea, this additional protection can be relevant. It is a case-by-case discussion.

An investment in your health

Even if you are not eligible for free coverage, most private insurance plans reimburse a large portion of the cost of vaccines. Consider vaccination a direct investment in your long-term health.