HPV Vaccine

We offer the Gardasil 9 vaccine, which protects against nine types of Human Papillomavirus, including those most commonly linked to cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, as well as the types responsible for most genital warts.

The vaccine is available for individuals who may have missed the NHS vaccination programme or do not meet current NHS eligibility criteria. Depending on age and clinical factors, the vaccination course may consist of one, two, or three doses over several months.

Telling your partner that you are receiving the HPV vaccine is entirely a personal choice. Many people choose to share this information as part of open conversations about sexual health, but there is no medical requirement to do so. Discussing vaccination can help encourage honest communication and may prompt partners to consider their own vaccination status or sexual health protection.

The HPV vaccine is highly effective at protecting against the HPV types most commonly associated with genital warts and HPV-related cancers. It is most effective when given before exposure, but still provides benefit to sexually active individuals who may not have encountered all covered types.

It does not protect against all HPV types, so regular cervical screening remains important where applicable.

Most side effects of the HPV vaccine are mild and temporary. Common side effects include:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Headache or tiredness
• Mild fever or muscle aches
• Nausea or dizziness shortly after vaccination

Serious side effects are very rare, but as with any vaccine, allergic reactions can occur in uncommon cases.

The HPV vaccine is not routinely recommended during pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs before completing the course, remaining doses are usually deferred until after delivery.

If the vaccine is given before pregnancy is recognised, there is no evidence of harm. The vaccine is considered safe during breastfeeding.

The HPV vaccine is a preventive measure and cannot be self-administered at home. It must be given by a healthcare professional.

It does not treat existing HPV infections or genital warts. If you have symptoms, medical assessment is recommended to discuss appropriate treatment options.

The vaccine begins stimulating an immune response within a few weeks. Protection develops progressively with each dose, with optimal and longer-lasting protection achieved after completing the full course.

Menopause does not directly reduce the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine. The vaccine is most effective before exposure, though it can still offer protection later in life.

Mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, headache, or fatigue may occur shortly after vaccination and usually settle within a few days.

If symptoms persist, worsen, or feel unusual, you should seek medical advice.

If you notice new lumps, bumps, or skin changes (such as possible genital warts), these are unlikely to be caused by the vaccine and should be assessed separately, as the vaccine does not treat or cause HPV infection.

While the HPV vaccine is highly effective, it does not provide complete protection against all HPV types. Infection can still occur, particularly from types not covered by the vaccine or from exposure prior to vaccination.

If symptoms develop, clinical assessment is recommended. Vaccination should be combined with routine cervical screening where appropriate.

No routine follow-up is required after completing the HPV vaccination course.

However, individuals with a cervix should continue to attend regular cervical screening as recommended.

Your partner does not need vaccination because you are receiving it, but they may choose to be vaccinated for their own protection.

The vaccine reduces the risk of genital warts and HPV-related cancers, so many adults consider it as part of their long-term sexual health care.