Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination
What is HPV?
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus that spreads through skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual activity. Most people will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives, often without knowing it. While many types cause no harm, some high-risk strains can lead to serious health problems, including cervical cancer, other genital cancers, and throat cancer.
To book your HPV vaccine, simply use the dropdown below to select a location and choose your appointment time. Please note we are not offering vaccinations at any other clinics.
Why do you need the vaccine?
Gardasil 9 immunises against 9 specific strains of HPV: 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. HPV is typically transmitted through sexual contact or skin-to-skin genital contact. While HPV itself often doesn’t show symptoms and is usually cleared by the body within a couple of years, it can lay dormant for up to 20 years. In some cases, it may lead to genital warts or, in more serious instances, abnormal cell growth that can result in cancer.
The strains protected by Gardasil 9 are the primary cause of genital warts and various cancers of the anus, vulva, vagina, and cervix.
At the moment, NHS offers HPV vaccination routinely for boys and girls aged 12 to 13 years. However, you can get it with NHS up till 25 years old. If you missed the dose or are not able to contact your NHS GP, you can get this vaccine privately at London Doctors Clinic.
Key Features of Gardasil 9:
- Up to 90% effective in preventing genital warts and HPV-related cancers
- Protects against 9 strains of HPV (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58)
How Gardasil 9 Works
Gardasil 9 works by introducing harmless proteins that mimic the HPV virus, stimulating the body to create antibodies. If you are later exposed to the actual virus, the body’s antibodies help prevent the virus from entering cells, thus preventing infection, warts, or cancer. The vaccine does not contain live virus, so it cannot cause HPV-related illnesses.
Effectiveness of Gardasil 9
For those not yet sexually active, Gardasil 9 can prevent up to 90% of genital warts and HPV-related cancers (including those affecting the anus, vulva, vagina, and cervix).
For sexually active individuals, Gardasil 9 still helps reduce the risk of developing these conditions.
Though Gardasil 9 provides high levels of protection, it’s not 100% effective. Therefore, we recommend regular cervical smear tests for women to detect early signs of cervical cancer. Studies show that Gardasil 9 provides protection for at least 8 years, with potential for longer-lasting immunity, although further research is needed to confirm this. Currently, no booster injection is necessary.
Who should get vaccinated?
The HPV vaccine is recommended for:
- Older adolescents and adults aged 18 to 45 years
- Are not already fully immunised against HPV
- Men who have sex with men (MSM) – anyone eligible for the MSM HPV vaccination programme who started, but did not complete the schedule before reaching the age of 46 years.
- Transgender and other individuals.
How is it given?
Depending on your age and medical history, the vaccine is given as either two or three doses over several months. The full course provides long-lasting protection.
Cost
The cost of the HPV vaccine is £180 per dose. Most people will require two or three doses for full protection, depending on age at the first dose.
Is it safe?
Yes, the HPV vaccine has an excellent safety record. Side effects are usually mild and short-lived, such as a sore arm or low-grade fever. It has been extensively studied and used globally to reduce HPV-related disease.
Book your HPV vaccine today
Protect yourself or your child from future risk. The earlier you vaccinate, the better the protection.
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If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible or need the vaccine, a quick conversation with your healthcare provider can help you decide.