HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Vaccine for Adolescents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

• Care notes
• Ambulatory
• Español

What is the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine?

The 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 can be given with other vaccines.

What is the recommended HPV vaccine schedule?

The first dose is recommended at 11 to 12 years but may be given as early as 9 years. Any needed catch-up doses 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.

What are reasons my 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.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

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

What are the 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.

When should I seek immediate care?

• Your adolescent has a high fever or feels weak.

When should I call my adolescent's doctor?

• 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.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer