As junior Ashley Paxton-Turner rolled up her sleeve to receive the shot, she didn’t think about the controversy surrounding the vaccine she was about to receive. Her mom had simply told her she was going to get it—getting the shot wasn’t an option.

“My mother told me after school one day that I was going with her to see the family doctor,” said Turner-Jackson. “It was as if I was getting a regular shot.”

Gardasil, a new vaccine recommended for women ages of 9-26, prevents cervical cancer. But because the HPV virus that causes cancer is sexually transmitted, it has created controversy because it is given to girls at such a young age. Opponents of the vaccine argue that it promotes sexual activity.

Gynecologist Dr. Mary Kay Dineen disagrees.

“The vaccine is for anyone who plans to eventually become sexually active,” said Dr. Dineen. “It’s not a form of birth control; therefore, it’s not promoting sexual activity. Even birth control is prescribed for different reasons other than preventing pregnancy.”

Dr. Dineen said she also believes that because a girl receives the vaccine doesn’t make her feel that she can become sexually active.

“Girls will choose to become sexually active not for those reasons,” said Dr. Dineen. “People don’t consider cervical cancer when becoming sexually active.”

The vaccine is given as an injection in three doses. The patient and doctor decide when the first dose is given. The second dose is given two months after the first dose, followed by a third dose four months later.

In the Williamsburg area, doctors are administering the vaccine in a myriad of ways.

“My doctor just gave me the shot and didn’t say anything. I couldn’t tell the difference between getting this vaccine and others that I have gotten,” said Turner-Jackson. “But I have heard of some doctors giving their patients a lengthy talk about the vaccine not promoting sexual activity before the shot is given.”

When administering the vaccine, Dr. Dineen said she makes sure her patients are well informed.

“If anyone comes in our office, we will tell them about the vaccine,” said Dr. Dineen. “If they want it, then we inform them of how the dosages work, costs, etc.”

Also, if the patient asks, she shares her professional opinion.

“I believe it is a perfectly good vaccine,” said Dr. Dineen. “It is a good idea. I encourage them to get it.”

Senior Laura Curtis said Dr. Keller, another local gynecologist, felt strongly about her patients receiving the vaccine if they are the right age.

“I went to see her and she was very enthusiastic about me getting the vaccine,” said Curtis. “She seemed very confident about it.”

Curtis agreed with her doctor’s recommendation.

“Once my doctor told me she would give her children the shot, I didn’t see a reason to not get it,” said Curtis.

Dr. Dineen agreed the vaccine can only help. She hopes that people can see beyond the controversy and realize the rationale behind getting the vaccine.

“I don’t see it as planning to become sexually active,” said Dr. Dineen. “I see it as planning ahead.”