Who should have the HPV vaccine?
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The HPV vaccine is suitable for both males and females from the age of 9 years onwards. It is particularly beneficial for:
Adults who were not vaccinated through the NHS programme
Teenagers who missed their school vaccination
Individuals seeking protection against HPV-related cancers and genital warts
Men and women who wish to reduce their future risk of HPV infection
If you are unsure whether vaccination is suitable for you, our pharmacy team can provide personalised advice.
What does Gardasil 9 protect against?
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Gardasil 9 protects against nine HPV types, including those responsible for:
Most cases of cervical cancer
Many HPV-related anal, penile, vulval and vaginal cancers
Certain cancers affecting the mouth and throat
The majority of genital warts
Can adults still benefit from the HPV vaccine?
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Yes. Although the vaccine is most effective before exposure to HPV, adults can still benefit because they may not have encountered all the HPV types covered by the vaccine. Vaccination can therefore provide valuable protection later in life.
Why isn't the HPV vaccine available to all adults on the NHS?
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The NHS routinely offers HPV vaccination to children aged 12 to 13 years as part of the national immunisation programme. Adults who were not vaccinated when eligible may not qualify for NHS vaccination but can still choose to receive the vaccine privately.
Is the HPV vaccine safe?
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Yes. The HPV vaccine has been extensively studied and has an excellent safety record. Millions of doses have been administered worldwide, and healthcare professionals recommend vaccination as an effective way to help prevent HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
What are the side effects of the HPV vaccine?
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Most side effects are mild and temporary. Common side effects include:
Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
Headache
Tiredness
Mild fever
Dizziness
Nausea
Muscle aches
How many doses of the HPV vaccine will I need?
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The number of doses required depends on your age and individual circumstances.
Most adults require a course of vaccinations given over several months. During your appointment, our clinician will explain the recommended schedule and answer any questions you may have.
Can men have the HPV vaccine?
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Yes. HPV affects both men and women. Vaccination can help protect men against genital warts and several HPV-related cancers, including anal, penile and certain head and neck cancers.
Can I have the HPV vaccine if I am sexually active?
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Yes. Even if you are sexually active, you can still benefit from HPV vaccination. Most people will not have been exposed to all of the HPV types covered by the vaccine, meaning vaccination may still provide valuable protection against future HPV infections and the cancers and genital warts they can cause. Many sexually active adults choose to get vaccinated as an important step in protecting their long-term health.
Do I still need cervical screening if I have had the HPV vaccine?
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Yes. The HPV vaccine provides excellent protection against the HPV types responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases, but it does not protect against every HPV type that can cause cervical cancer.
Regular cervical screening (smear tests) remains an important part of protecting your health because screening can identify abnormal cell changes before they develop into cancer. For this reason, women should continue to attend all routine cervical screening appointments when invited, even if they have completed the full HPV vaccination course. Using both vaccination and regular screening offers the best protection against cervical cancer.
