HPV vaccine: Helping you decide

What is HPV?

HPV is the shortened name for Human Papillomavirus. It’s a super common virus- there are over 100 types of it. 

In fact, it’s one of the most common STI (sexually transmitted infection) out there.

How do you get HPV?

HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact in the genital area- not just through sex.

You can get it from vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and even by sharing sex toys.

Who can get HPV?

Literally anyone. It doesn’t matter your gender, age or sexuality. 

Are there symptoms?

Most of the time, no. HPV often has zero symptoms, so people usually don’t know they have it.

Some types can cause painless lumps or warts around your genitals or anus.

Is HPV harmful?

Often, it goes away on its own. But sometimes it sticks around and causes problems, like genital warts or even cancer.

What types of cancer can HPV cause?

HPV can lead to:

• Cervical cancer
• Cancer of the mouth, throat, or anus
• Penis, vulva, or vaginal cancer
• Head and neck cancers

How do I know if I have HPV?

If you have a cervix, you can get screened for HPV during a cervical screening (starting at age 25 on the NHS).

If you don’t have a cervix, there isn’t a regular test but the vaccine still helps protect you.

Can I prevent HPV?

You can lower the risk. Condoms help a bit, but they don’t cover all areas.

The best protection? The HPV vaccine. It protects you from the types of HPV most likely to cause cancer or genital warts.

What’s the HPV vaccine?

It’s a jab in your upper arm that helps your immune system fight off HPV.

Most people only need 1 or 2 doses of the vaccine.

Who can get the vaccine?

If you're aged 12 to 25, the NHS recommends getting it.

If you’re allergic to an ingredient in the vaccine, you might not be able to get it. Talk to a healthcare professional to check.

Do I need to be having sex to get the vaccine?

Nope. In fact, it works best before you start having sex, but it's still worth getting even if you've already started having sex.

Is the vaccine free?

Yes, if you’re aged 12 to 25, you can get it free on the NHS.

How do I get the vaccine?

Still in school?

If you're in school, you can get vaccine in Year 8 with the school vaccination team. 

Missed the school vaccine or not in school?

No problem. You can ask your:

• GP
• Local health clinic
• School nurse
• School vaccination team

Are there any side effects?

Most side effects are mild- like a sore arm, headache, or tiredness.

Serious side effects are very rare, and the people giving the vaccine are trained to help you if anything happens.

I've already had the vaccine, what now?

If you have a cervix, still go to cervical screenings from age 25. The vaccine protects you from most types of HPV, but no vaccine covers everything.