You'd think a vaccine that could help prevent cancer would be a hit, right? Well, think again. Vaccination rates have been surprisingly low for the HPV vaccine, which helps prevent the spread of the virus that can cause cervical cancer. The vaccine, approved in 2006, is approved for girls and women aged 9 to 26, ideally before becoming sexually active.

Why the short lines for the shot? The answer seems to point to four main issues: convenience, cost, risk and parents' perceptions of the age teens begin having sex.

With so many issues surrounding the virus, the cancer and the vaccine, it's easy to get confused. But now help is here, with expert advice and thoughtful opinions from the iVillage Community.