HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Vaccine for Adolescents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 7, 2024.

• Care notes
• Ambulatory
• Español

AMBULATORY CARE:

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine

is an injection given to protect your adolescent against HPV infection. The HPV vaccine is the most effective way to prevent most cancers caused by HPV infection. HPV infection may also cause genital warts. HPV is commonly spread by sexual contact. The HPV vaccine is most effective if it is given before sexual activity begins. This allows your adolescent's body to build protection against HPV before coming in contact with the virus. The HPV vaccine is still effective after sexual activity has begun.

HPV vaccine schedule:

The first dose is recommended at 11 to 12 years but may be given as early as 9 years. The HPV vaccine can be given with other vaccines. If your adolescent is not vaccinated by age 12, he or she can still get the vaccine. The vaccine can be given through age 26.

• The vaccine is given in 2 doses if the first dose is given at 9 through 14 years:
  • The first dose is given at any time.
  • The second dose is given 6 to 12 months after the first dose.
• The vaccine is given in 3 doses if the first dose is given at 15 years or older. A third dose may be given if your adolescent is 12 to 14 and has a weakened immune system.
  • The first dose is given at any time.
  • The second dose is given 1 to 2 months after the first dose.
  • The third dose is given 6 months after the first dose.

Reasons your adolescent should not get the vaccine or should wait to get it:

• Your adolescent should not get a second dose if he or she had an allergic reaction to the first.
• Your adolescent is pregnant. The vaccine is given after pregnancy.
• Your adolescent is sick or has a fever. Wait to get the vaccine until his or her symptoms are gone.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Aldara
• measles virus vaccine/mumps virus vaccine/rubella virus vaccine/varicella virus vaccine
• imiquimod
• ProQuad
• Podocon-25

Risks of the HPV vaccine:

The area where the shot was given may be painful, red, or swollen. Your adolescent may have a fever or headache. Your adolescent may still get an HPV infection, even after getting the vaccine. Your adolescent may have an allergic reaction to the vaccine. This can be life-threatening.

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• Your adolescent has signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, or wheezing.

Seek care immediately if:

• Your adolescent has a high fever or feels weak.

Call your adolescent's doctor if:

• Your adolescent has increased pain, redness, or swelling around the area where the shot was given.
• You have questions or concerns about the HPV vaccine.

Apply a warm compress

to the area to relieve swelling and pain.

Follow up with your adolescent's doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your adolescent's visits.

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