What you should know about the HPV vaccine
At a glance
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that 85 percent of people will have at some point
- Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV infection
- The HPV vaccine protects against HPV infections that cause cancer
Twenty years ago, a vaccine to prevent certain types of cancer did not exist. But in 2006, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine was introduced to protect against HPV infections that cause cancer.
Because almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV infection, the number of cases in the U.S. has decreased dramatically thanks to the vaccine. A study of nearly 1.7 million women — conducted from 2006-2017 — showed a 90 percent reduction in cervical cancer occurrence in those vaccinated before age 17.
What is HPV?
HPV is a common virus with more than 200 different strains. It’s so common that 85 percent of the population will get it at some point in their lives.
While HPV is most commonly spread as a sexually transmitted infection, other strains of HPV result in warts on the hands and feet.
“Once a person is exposed to HPV, the virus is always present in their system, even if they do not have outward symptoms like warts,” says Nadia Crane, CNM, ARNP, with MultiCare Women’s Center – Auburn.
At least a dozen strains of HPV are linked to cancer, but the majority of cases stem from two high-risk types: 16 and 18. While cervical cancer is the most common HPV-related cancer, others associated with HPV include cancers of the mouth, throat, anus, vagina, vulva and penis.
Cervical cancer prevention
The strains of HPV that cause cervical cancer can take three to seven years to develop, so it’s especially important to stay current on screening tests that can detect cancer in its earliest stages. These tests check for abnormal cervical cells that can lead to cervical cancer.
The American College of Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends starting cervical cancer screening at 21. This test, commonly referred to as a Pap smear or Pap test, can include cervical cytology testing and HPV testing. With normal test results, you may not need another screening for three to five years. Discuss with your doctor or other health care provider the best schedule for your individual circumstances.
Signs of cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is most common in people with a cervix ages 35 to 44. Early-stage cervical cancer often does not cause symptoms. Cancer in more advanced stages may cause unusual bleeding or discharge between periods or after sex, pain during sex or pelvic pain.
When should you get the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine not only prevents cervical cancer, but also protects against cancers of the throat, anus and genitals. The ideal age for HPV vaccination is 11 or 12, but anyone can get it starting at age 9 and through age 26, according to ACOG. Those between 9 and 11 receive two doses of the HPV vaccine six to 12 months apart. Teens and young adults — ages 15 to 26 — need three doses of the vaccine.
The immune system develops a stronger response to the HPV vaccine when it’s given at a younger age. Getting vaccinated before becoming sexually active is also beneficial.
Even if you fall outside the primary age range for the vaccine, talk with your doctor or other health care provider about your risk of new HPV infection and potential benefits of the vaccine. Although you’ve likely been exposed to HPV, it could protect you from other strains you don’t have.
“I am grateful that medical research and technology is making such advancements as the HPV vaccine,” says Justine Bucknam, ARNP, with MultiCare Cancer Institute. “It is not very often that we find interventions to concretely prevent cancer. The HPV vaccine provides hope that we will continue to move toward a more cancer-free future for our children and grandchildren.”
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in Sept. 2022 and updated in Nov. 2025
