HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Vaccine for Adults

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

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What is the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is an injection given to protect against HPV infection. HPV is most commonly spread through sexual activity. It can also be spread from a mother to her baby during delivery. Certain types of HPV can increase your risk for other health conditions. Examples include genital warts, cervical cancer, and some forms of throat cancer. The HPV vaccine is most effective if given before sexual activity begins. This allows your body to build almost complete protection against HPV before you have contact with the virus. The HPV vaccine can be given with other vaccines.

When should I get the HPV vaccine?

The vaccine is recommended for adults aged 19 through 26 years. If you are 27 to 45, your healthcare provider can help you decide if you should get the vaccine. Your provider can tell you how many doses you should get:

• The first dose is given at any time.
• The second dose is given 1 to 2 months after the first dose.
• The third dose, if needed, is given 6 months after the first dose.

What are reasons I should not get the HPV vaccine or should wait to get it?

• You had a severe allergic reaction to a dose of the vaccine.
• You are pregnant. Your healthcare provider will tell you when you can get the vaccine.
• You are sick or have a fever. You may need to wait to get the vaccine until symptoms go away.

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?

You may have pain, redness, or swelling where the shot was given. You may have a fever or headache. You may still get an HPV infection, even after you receive the vaccine. You may have an allergic reaction to the vaccine. This can be life-threatening.

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

• You have signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, or wheezing.

When should I seek immediate care?

• You have a high fever or any symptoms that concern you.

When should I call my doctor?

• You have 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 care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. 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.

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Further information

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