Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. While many HPV infections clear on their own, certain strains can lead to serious health complications, including various types of cancer. The HPV vaccine represents a powerful preventive tool that can protect against these potentially life-threatening conditions.
Understanding the HPV vaccine, its benefits, and who should receive it is crucial for making informed decisions about your health and the health of your family. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about HPV vaccination.
What Is HPV and Why Is Vaccination Important?
Human papillomavirus is a group of more than 200 related viruses, with more than 40 types that can be transmitted through direct sexual contact. HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active people will get at least one type of HPV at some point in their lives if they are not vaccinated.
Most HPV infections cause no symptoms and go away on their own within two years. However, when HPV does not go away, it can cause health problems including:
- Genital warts
- Cervical cancer
- Vaginal and vulvar cancers
- Penile cancer
- Anal cancer
- Throat cancer (oropharyngeal cancer)
HPV causes approximately 36,000 cases of cancer in men and women every year in the United States. The good news is that HPV vaccination can prevent most of these cancers from developing.
How Does the HPV Vaccine Work?
The HPV vaccine works by stimulating your immune system to produce antibodies that will fight off HPV infections. The vaccine contains proteins that mimic parts of the HPV virus, but these proteins cannot cause infection. When your body encounters these proteins, it learns to recognize them and builds protection against the actual virus.
The current HPV vaccine available in the United States, Gardasil 9, protects against nine types of HPV:
- HPV types 16 and 18, which cause approximately 70% of cervical cancers and an even higher percentage of other HPV-related cancers
- HPV types 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58, which cause an additional 10-20% of cervical cancers
- HPV types 6 and 11, which cause approximately 90% of genital warts
The vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, which is why vaccination is recommended before individuals become sexually active.
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides clear recommendations for HPV vaccination based on age and circumstances.
Routine Vaccination for Preteens
The CDC recommends routine HPV vaccination for all children at age 11 or 12 years. Vaccination can be given starting at age 9. Vaccinating at this age allows the immune system to respond better to the vaccine and provides protection before potential exposure to the virus.
Research has consistently shown that receiving the HPV vaccine does not encourage earlier sexual activity or increased sexual behavior among young people.
Catch-Up Vaccination
HPV vaccination is recommended for everyone through age 26 years who is not adequately vaccinated. This includes:
- Young adults who did not receive the vaccine when they were younger
- Individuals who started but did not complete the vaccine series
- People who are not sure whether they received the vaccine
Vaccination for Adults Ages 27-45
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Gardasil 9 for use in individuals ages 9 to 45 years. For adults ages 27 through 45 years, the CDC recommends shared clinical decision-making between patients and their healthcare providers.
If you are in this age range, discuss with your healthcare provider whether getting vaccinated is right for you. Consider factors such as:
- Your likelihood of previous HPV exposure
- Your potential for new HPV exposure
- Your sexual history and current relationship status
- Any history of abnormal cervical screening results
While the vaccine may provide less benefit for people who have already been exposed to one or more HPV types, it can still protect against vaccine types not yet acquired.
HPV Vaccine Dosing Schedule
The number of HPV vaccine doses needed depends on the age at which the vaccination series begins.
Two-Dose Schedule
Children and adolescents who receive their first dose before their 15th birthday need only two doses of the HPV vaccine. The doses should be given:
- First dose: At the chosen age (typically 11-12 years)
- Second dose: 6 to 12 months after the first dose
Three-Dose Schedule
People who receive their first dose at age 15 or older need three doses of the vaccine. The dosing schedule is:
- First dose: Initial visit
- Second dose: 1 to 2 months after the first dose
- Third dose: 6 months after the first dose
The three-dose schedule is also recommended for people with weakened immune systems, regardless of age when starting the vaccine series.
The HPV vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines without affecting how well any of the vaccines work.
Who Should Not Get the HPV Vaccine?
While the HPV vaccine is safe for most people, certain individuals should not receive it or should delay vaccination:
Pregnant Women
The HPV vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy. If you discover you are pregnant after starting the vaccine series, you should delay the remaining doses until after pregnancy. However, if a dose was given during pregnancy, there is no reason for concern as studies have not shown adverse effects.
Women who are breastfeeding can safely receive the HPV vaccine.
People With Severe Allergies
Anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of HPV vaccine or to any component of the vaccine should not receive additional doses. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any severe allergies, including allergies to yeast.
Moderately or Severely Ill Individuals
People who are moderately or severely ill should wait until they recover before getting the HPV vaccine. Those with mild illness, such as a cold, can still receive the vaccine.
Benefits of HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine offers numerous important health benefits:
Cancer Prevention
The primary benefit of HPV vaccination is cancer prevention. Studies show that HPV vaccination can prevent more than 90% of HPV-related cancers when given at recommended ages. Since the introduction of HPV vaccines, there has been a significant decrease in HPV infections and cervical precancers in vaccinated populations.
Protection Against Genital Warts
The vaccine provides excellent protection against genital warts, which can be physically uncomfortable, emotionally distressing, and require treatment. Countries with high HPV vaccination rates have seen dramatic declines in genital warts cases.
Community Protection
High vaccination rates can provide indirect protection to unvaccinated individuals through herd immunity, reducing the overall prevalence of HPV in the population.
Long-Lasting Protection
Research indicates that HPV vaccine protection is long-lasting. Studies have shown protection remains strong for at least 10 years after vaccination, and ongoing research suggests protection may last much longer or even be lifelong.
Does the Vaccine Help If You Are Already Sexually Active?
Even if you are already sexually active, you can still benefit from HPV vaccination. Here is what you need to know:
While being sexually active before vaccination means you may have already been exposed to one or more HPV types, it is unlikely you have been exposed to all the types covered by the vaccine. The vaccine can still protect you against those HPV types you have not yet encountered.
However, it is important to understand that the HPV vaccine cannot treat existing HPV infections or HPV-related diseases. The vaccine is preventive, not therapeutic. If you already have an HPV infection, the vaccine will not make it go away faster or prevent complications from that particular infection.
If you are sexually active and considering the HPV vaccine, talk with your healthcare provider about your individual situation and potential benefits.
HPV Vaccine Side Effects and Safety
The HPV vaccine has been extensively studied and has an excellent safety record. More than 135 million doses have been distributed in the United States, and the vaccine continues to be monitored for safety.
Common Side Effects
Like any vaccine, the HPV vaccine can cause side effects. Most side effects are mild and go away on their own within a few days. Common side effects include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling in the arm where the shot was given
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle or joint pain
- Nausea
Fainting
Fainting can occur after any medical procedure, including vaccinations. It is more common among adolescents and young adults. To prevent injuries from fainting, vaccine recipients should:
- Sit or lie down during vaccination
- Remain seated or lying down for 15 minutes after receiving the shot
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects from the HPV vaccine are rare. Severe allergic reactions are very uncommon but can occur with any vaccine. If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or weakness) after leaving the clinic, call emergency services immediately.
The CDC and FDA continue to monitor HPV vaccine safety through several surveillance systems to detect any unusual or severe health problems.
HPV Vaccination and Cervical Cancer Screening
It is crucial to understand that HPV vaccination does not replace cervical cancer screening. Even if you have received the HPV vaccine, you still need regular screening tests.
Why Screening Is Still Necessary
Several reasons explain why screening remains important:
- The vaccine does not protect against all cancer-causing HPV types
- Some people may not receive all recommended doses of the vaccine
- People who were vaccinated after already being exposed to HPV may not get full vaccine benefits
- The vaccine is most effective when given before HPV exposure, so some individuals may have been exposed before vaccination
Screening Recommendations
Current cervical cancer screening guidelines recommend:
- Starting screening at age 21
- Women ages 21-29: Pap test every 3 years
- Women ages 30-65: Pap test every 3 years, HPV test every 5 years, or both tests together every 5 years
Talk with your healthcare provider about the screening schedule that is right for you based on your individual circumstances and health history.
HPV Vaccination Requirements for School
The HPV vaccine is included in the CDC’s recommended childhood immunization schedule. However, school vaccination requirements vary by state. Some states require HPV vaccination for school entry, while others do not.
Even if your state does not require HPV vaccination for school attendance, health experts strongly recommend that children receive the vaccine at age 11 or 12 to ensure protection before potential exposure to HPV.
Check with your state health department or your child’s school to learn about specific vaccination requirements in your area.
Common Questions About HPV Vaccination
Can You Get HPV From the Vaccine?
No. The HPV vaccine does not contain live virus and cannot cause HPV infection. The vaccine contains proteins that mimic the HPV virus, which trigger an immune response but cannot cause disease.
Does the Vaccine Affect Fertility?
No. There is no evidence that HPV vaccination causes fertility problems. In fact, by protecting against HPV infections that can lead to cervical cancer, the vaccine may help preserve fertility by preventing cervical cancer treatments that can affect reproductive health.
How Effective Is the HPV Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is highly effective. When given at recommended ages before HPV exposure, the vaccine provides nearly 100% protection against infections with the HPV types it covers. Real-world data has shown significant reductions in HPV infections, genital warts, and cervical precancers in vaccinated populations.
Do You Need a Booster Shot?
Currently, no booster dose is recommended. Studies show that protection remains strong without the need for additional doses. Researchers continue to monitor vaccinated populations to determine if booster doses might be needed in the future.
Can Men Benefit From the HPV Vaccine?
Absolutely. HPV vaccination is equally important for males. The vaccine protects men against genital warts and cancers caused by HPV, including penile cancer, anal cancer, and throat cancers. Vaccinating boys also helps reduce the overall spread of HPV in the population.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Most insurance plans cover HPV vaccination with no out-of-pocket costs when received at recommended ages. The Affordable Care Act requires most private insurance plans to cover ACIP-recommended vaccines, including HPV vaccine, without cost-sharing.
For those without insurance or whose insurance does not cover vaccines, the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides vaccines at no cost to children ages 18 and younger who are uninsured, underinsured, or eligible for Medicaid.
Many state and local health departments also offer low-cost or free HPV vaccination. Contact your local health department for information about vaccination programs in your area.
The Bottom Line
HPV vaccination is a safe and effective way to prevent infections that can lead to several types of cancer and other health problems. The vaccine works best when given at ages 11-12, before potential exposure to the virus, but can provide benefits for people up to age 45.
If you have questions about whether HPV vaccination is right for you or your child, talk with your healthcare provider. They can help you make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances and health history.
Remember that HPV vaccination is just one part of a comprehensive approach to preventing HPV-related diseases. Continue to practice safe health behaviors and attend recommended screening appointments as advised by your healthcare provider.
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – HPV Vaccination
- National Cancer Institute – HPV Vaccines
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration – Gardasil 9
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – HPV Vaccine
- World Health Organization – Human Papillomavirus and Cervical Cancer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions related to your health.
Read the full Disclaimer here →