Hpv VaccineWhat the HPV vaccine is forThe HPV vaccine reduces your chances of getting human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that's spread through skin contact (usually when having sex). Most types of HPV are harmless. But some types are linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including: HPV can also cause genital warts. Who should have the HPV vaccineThe HPV vaccine is recommended and available on the NHS for children aged 12 to 13 years old and people at higher risk from HPV. Who cannot have the HPV vaccineMost people who are eligible for the HPV vaccine can have it. You only cannot have the vaccine if you've had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of the vaccine, or an ingredient in the vaccine. There's no evidence the vaccine is harmful if you're pregnant, but sometimes you may be advised to wait until you're no longer pregnant before having the vaccine. You can have the HPV vaccine while breastfeeding. Getting vaccinated if you're unwellIf you have a high temperature or feel too unwell to do your normal activities, wait until you're feeling better before having the vaccine. HPV vaccine ingredientsThere is 1 type of HPV vaccine given in the UK. You can check the ingredients in the patient leaflet: Gardasil 9 HPV vaccine patient leaflet (Electronic Medicines Compendium website) How to get the HPV vaccineThere are different ways to get the HPV vaccine. How the HPV vaccine is givenThe HPV vaccine is given as an injection into your arm. The number of doses you need depends on your age and how well your immune system works:
Side effects of the HPV vaccineThe most common side effects of the HPV vaccine are mild and do not last long. They can include:
More serious side effects such as a severe allergic reaction are very rare. The person who vaccinates you will be trained to deal with allergic reactions and treat them immediately. More about vaccine safetyFind out more about why vaccinations are important and the safest way to protect yourself How well the HPV vaccine worksThe HPV vaccine works very well in reducing your risk of getting HPV. Since the vaccine has been used, there has been a big drop in the number of young people getting conditions linked to HPV, such as cervical cancer and genital warts. Research suggests that over time the HPV vaccine will help save thousands of lives in the UK. ImportantIt's still important to attend cervical screening appointments if you've been vaccinated against HPV, as there's still a small chance you could get cervical cancer. Sexual Health AdviceThroughout this series we have help and advice on staying healthy, dealing with Sexually Transmitted Infections, the risks of each type of the most popular gay sex and what to do if the sex you have is not consentual. The topics covered in this series include:
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