The only way to be sure that you won’t get HPV is to never have any sexual contact with another person. But most people have sex at some point in their lives. Other than not having sex, one of the best ways to help prevent HPV and HPV-related cancers is to get the HPV shot. The shot protects you from most types of high-risk HPV (the kinds of HPV that can cause cancer). Some HPV shots also protect you from the kinds of HPV that cause genital warts.
The HPV shot helps protect you against certain types of HPV that can lead to cancer or genital warts. Also known by the brand name Gardasil 9, the HPV shot protects against:
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HPV types 16 and 18 — the 2 types that cause 80% of cervical cancer cases.
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HPV types 6 and 11, which cause 90% of genital warts cases.
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Another 5 types of HPV (types 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58) that can lead to cancer of the cervix, anus, vulva/vagina, penis, or throat.
The HPV shot is given in a series. For people ages 15-45, there are 3 separate shots. The second shot is given 2 months after the first, and the third shot is given 4 months after the second shot. So, in all, it takes about 6 months to get all 3 shots.
For people ages 9-14, you only need to get 2 shots. The second shot is given 6 months after the first shot.
Who should get the HPV shot?
All people ages 9 to 45 can get the HPV shot to protect against genital warts and/or different types of HPV that can cause cancer. It’s recommended that children get the shot at age 11 or 12, so they’re fully protected years before they become sexually active.
But regardless of your age, talk with your nurse or doctor to find out if the HPV shot could benefit you.
How effective is the HPV shot?
The HPV shot is one of the most effective shots you can get. Studies show that the HPV shot works extremely well to prevent high-risk HPV and the problems it can cause. If you get all recommended shots before you have sex, it can lower your chances of getting genital warts and cancer caused by HPV by up to 99%.
The HPV shot works best when you get it years before you have any sexual contact with another person. That’s why it’s recommended to get vaccinated at ages 11-12. But even if you’ve already had sex or know you’ve had HPV, it’s still a good idea to get the HPV shot. There are several strains of HPV that can cause cancer and genital warts, and the vaccine can protect you from any strains you haven’t been exposed to yet.
How long is the HPV shot effective?
Studies show that the HPV shot gives long-lasting protection against HPV. The longer the medicine is out, the more scientists will know about how long it works for. But so far it is being shown to last for many years.
Since the HPV shot was recommended in 2006 in the U.S., rates of infection, genital warts, and cervical precancers have gone down a lot.
Are there HPV shot side effects?
Research shows that the HPV shot is safe. The most common side effect is temporary pain and redness where you get the shot.
If I already have an HPV infection, can the shot treat it?
Nope. If you already have an HPV infection, getting an HPV shot can’t treat it. It can, however, protect you from getting other types of HPV.
If you have an HPV infection, talk with your doctor or nurse to find out what tests or treatment you need.
Do I still need to get Pap/HPV tests if I got the HPV shot?
Yup. Pap tests are still an important way to find and prevent cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine doesn’t protect against all types of HPV that can cause cancer. So it's still important to get Pap/HPV tests to find any cell changes that might lead to cervical cancer.
Where can I get the HPV shot?
You can get the HPV shot at many Planned Parenthood health centers. You can also get it from other clinics, health departments, and private nurses and doctors.
How much does the HPV shot cost?
Each dose can cost about $250. Luckily, many health insurance companies cover the cost of the shot. There are also programs that help some people without insurance get the HPV shot for low or no cost.
You deserve to be healthy, regardless of whether you have health insurance. Talk with the staff at your local Planned Parenthood health center or another nurse or doctor to get more information about ways to make the HPV shot more affordable.