What is HPV?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with over three-quarters of sexually active women contracting it at some point in their lives. In many cases, it remains asymptomatic, but it can lead to genital warts and even genital cancers, including cervical cancer (the second most common cancer in young women).
HPV spreads through sexual contact and often clears on its own due to the body's immune response. However, in some cases, it persists and goes unnoticed, potentially leading to cancerous lesions.
HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer, and infection with certain HPV types significantly increases the risk of developing cervical cancer.
While condoms reduce the risk of HPV, they are not 100% effective since the virus can be present on the entire genital skin.
Vaccination
The HPV vaccine, known as Gardasil 9, is a crucial part of the NHS vaccination programme, offered to children aged 12 to 13. However, it is also recommended for both men and women up to the age of 45 to safeguard against these diseases. Individuals up to the age of 25 can receive this vaccine for free on the NHS.
The vaccine provides protection against HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58. Notably, types 6 and 11 are responsible for 90% of genital warts, which, while not dangerous, require treatment and can be transmitted to sexual partners. Types 16 and 18 are the primary causes of cervical cancer in women and are associated with cancers in various areas such as the vagina, throat, penis and anus.
Schedule The HPV vaccine requires one or two doses given by injection, depending on your age:
- Children, adolescents and adults under 25 require one dose.
- Individuals aged 25 or older require two doses. The first 0.5ml dose is followed by a second 0.5ml dose 6 to 24 months later.
Eligibility Almost everyone is eligible for the HPV vaccine, except pregnant women. It is suitable for breastfeeding women. The vaccine is not provided to individuals over the age of 45. It is advisable to receive the vaccine before having sexual intercourse for the first time, but it remains beneficial even if you've already had sex.
Dosage Depending on your age, you may need 1 or 2 doses.
Cost Each dose of the HPV vaccine is priced at £165. You can save by purchasing the full 2-dose course upfront for £290.
Boosters Currently, boosters are not recommended.
Administration The HPV vaccine is administered as an injection in the upper arm. While it is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience redness and soreness at the injection site.
Side Effects The HPV vaccination may cause temporary side effects in some individuals, including headache, fever, nausea and dizziness. You may also experience redness, swelling, itching, bruising or redness at the injection site. As with other vaccines, we may request that you remain at the clinic for observation for 15 minutes after the injection.
Additional Precautions Consistently using condoms during sexual activity reduces the risk of contracting HPV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Women should regularly attend cervical screening (smear tests). You should not receive the vaccine if you are allergic to any of the following ingredients:
- Sodium chloride
- L-histidine
- Polysorbate 80
- Sodium borate
Visit Us
Contact your preferred Gilbride Pharmacy branch via our dedicated page to learn more or simply visit us at your convenience.