human papillomavirus vaccine
(HYOO-mun PA-pih-LOH-muh-VY-rus vak-SEEN)
A vaccine that helps protect the body against infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infection can cause abnormal tissue growth, such as warts, and other changes to cells. Infection for a long time with certain types of HPV can cause cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, penis, and oropharynx. Human papillomavirus vaccines are being used to prevent some of these cancers. They are also being used to prevent genital warts and abnormal lesions that may lead to some of these cancers. Also called HPV vaccine.