HPV Vaccine

Description

What is the HPV Vaccine?

 

 

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine helps protect against infection caused by certain types of HPV, a very common virus that can affect both men and women.

HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. While many HPV infections clear naturally, some high-risk types can cause cervical cancer, anal cancer, penile cancer, vulval cancer, vaginal cancer, and certain head and neck cancers. HPV can also cause genital warts.

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers and genital warts.

The HPV vaccine is available following a consultation with our qualified healthcare team.

It is suitable for both males and females.

 

 

What Does the HPV Vaccine Protect Against?

The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9®) helps protect against nine types of Human Papillomavirus associated with cancer and genital warts.

 

 

The vaccine helps protect against:

• Cervical cancer
• Anal cancer
• Penile cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Vulval cancer
• Certain head and neck cancers
• Genital warts

 

 

HPV is commonly spread through:

• Sexual contact
• Intimate skin-to-skin contact
• Close personal contact involving genital areas
• Risk levels vary depending on:
• Age
• Sexual activity
• Previous HPV exposure
• Vaccination history
• Individual health factors

Our clinicians will assess your circumstances and advise whether vaccination is appropriate.

 

 

Who Should Consider the HPV Vaccine?

 

 

The vaccine may be recommended for:

• Adults who did not receive HPV vaccination during adolescence
• Individuals seeking protection against HPV-related cancers
• Men and women wishing to reduce their risk of genital warts
• People with new or multiple sexual partners
• Individuals who may be at increased risk of HPV exposure
• Those who missed the routine NHS vaccination programme

Recommendations vary according to age, vaccination history, and individual risk factors.

 

 

Who May Not Be Suitable?

 

 

This vaccine may not be suitable if you:

• Have previously experienced a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine or any of its ingredients
• Are currently unwell with a high temperature
• Are pregnant
• Have certain medical conditions requiring individual assessment

Our clinicians will review your medical history before vaccination.

 

 

Vaccination Schedule

The HPV vaccine is administered as a course of injections.

 

 

For Individuals Aged 9 to 14 Years

 

 

The vaccination course consists of two doses:

• Dose 1: Chosen start date
• Dose 2: 6 to 24 months after the first dose

 

 

For Individuals Aged 15 Years and Over

The vaccination course consists of three doses:

• Dose 1: Chosen start date
• Dose 2: 2 months after the first dose
• Dose 3: 6 months after the first dose

For the best protection, all recommended doses should be completed.

The most appropriate schedule will be discussed during your consultation.

Ideally, vaccination should be completed before exposure to HPV. However, many adults can still benefit from vaccination even if they are already sexually active.

 

 

Booster Doses

Routine booster doses are not currently recommended.

Current evidence suggests long-lasting protection following completion of the recommended vaccination course.

If future booster recommendations are introduced, our clinicians will advise based on the latest guidance.

 

 

Benefits of the HPV Vaccine

• Helps protect against HPV-related cancers
• Reduces the risk of genital warts
• Provides protection against multiple HPV types
• Suitable for both males and females
• Provides long-term protection following completion of the course
• Administered by trained healthcare professionals

 

 

Health Advice

Vaccination is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, but many individuals can still benefit later in life.

 

 

Additional health measures include:

• Attending routine cervical screening appointments when eligible
• Practising safer sex
• Seeking medical advice about any unusual symptoms
• Following national screening recommendations
• Maintaining good sexual health practices
• Vaccination does not replace routine cervical screening.

 

 

Possible Side Effects

Like all vaccines, the HPV vaccine can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

 

 

Common side effects may include:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Mild fever
• Muscle aches

These side effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days.

Always read the Patient Information Leaflet provided at your appointment.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

Am I too old to receive the HPV vaccine?

No. Many adults who were not vaccinated during adolescence can still benefit from HPV vaccination. Our clinicians can advise whether vaccination is appropriate for you.

 

 

How long does protection last?

Current evidence suggests long-lasting protection following completion of the recommended vaccination course.

 

 

Do I need a booster dose?

Routine booster doses are not currently recommended.

 

 

Can I have the vaccine if I am already sexually active?

Yes. Even if you have previously been exposed to one type of HPV, vaccination may still provide protection against other HPV types included in the vaccine.

 

 

Does the vaccine replace cervical screening?

No. Women should continue to attend routine cervical screening appointments when invited, even if they have been vaccinated.

 

 

Are there any side effects?

Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as soreness at the injection site, headache, fatigue, or mild flu-like symptoms.

Convenient Appointment Times

Once your appointment has been booked, you can attend The Kingston Pharmacy at a convenient time for your vaccination.

Our trained healthcare professionals administer vaccinations in a private consultation room, ensuring your comfort, privacy and safety throughout your appointment.

Vaccination Advice and Support

As your local community pharmacy, we are available to answer any questions you may have before or after your appointment. Whether you would like advice about possible side effects, completing your vaccination course or future vaccinations, our friendly pharmacy team is always happy to help.

You can contact us by telephone, email or by visiting the pharmacy, and we will be happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.

Important Information

The HPV Vaccine is not suitable for everyone and should only be administered following an appropriate clinical assessment.

The HPV Vaccine helps prevent new HPV infections but does not treat existing HPV infections or HPV-related conditions. Vaccination is most effective before exposure to the virus, although many adults can still benefit from protection against HPV types they have not previously encountered.

Always inform your healthcare professional of any allergies, previous vaccine reactions or current illness before receiving the vaccine.