What does it prevent?
The nine-valent vaccine covers the HPV types responsible for about 90% of cervical cancers and most genital warts, and protects against some vulvar, vaginal, anal and throat cancers. Countries with vaccination programmes have seen marked falls in pre-cancerous cervical lesions.
Who and how many doses?
- Ages 9-14: two doses (0 and 6-12 months); the WHO also accepts single-dose schedules at this age.
- Ages 15-26: three doses (0, 1-2 and 6 months).
- Ages 27-45: not routine; assessed individually by risk of new HPV exposure.
- Boys and young men can also be vaccinated.
Can sexually active women be vaccinated?
Yes. The vaccine protects against types not yet encountered, and no HPV test is needed beforehand. There is evidence it may reduce recurrence after treatment of cervical changes.
Safety
Hundreds of millions of doses have been given worldwide and safety has been studied extensively. Common side effects are pain and redness at the injection site and brief dizziness. It is not recommended in pregnancy; if pregnancy occurs, remaining doses are given after birth. It can be given while breastfeeding.
Do I still need screening?
Yes. The vaccine does not cover every high-risk type and exposure may have occurred before vaccination, so screening continues according to the national programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the HPV vaccine cause infertility?
Up to what age can it be given?
Sources
- World Health Organization. Human papillomavirus vaccines: WHO position paper, 2022.
- ACOG Committee Opinion No. 809: Human Papillomavirus Vaccination, 2020.
The information on this website is for general information only and does not replace a medical consultation.