What is the HPV Vaccine?

In this section

What the HPV vaccine protects against

The HPV vaccine protects against the two strains of HPV (16 and 18) that cause cervical cancer in over 70% of women. It does not protect against any other sexually transmitted infections or against pregnancy.  Because the HPV vaccine does not protect against ALL cervical cancers, it is really important for all girls to have cervical screening later in life. The NHS cervical screening programme will continue after the introduction of the HPV vaccine (cervical screening in England is offered from the age of 25).

Is the vaccine safe?

The vaccine has undergone rigorous safety testing as part of the licensing process required in the UK and other European countries.

Who’s the vaccine for?

The HPV vaccination programme started in September 2008 with all 12- to 13-year-old and 17- to 18-year-old girls being offered the vaccine. A catch-up programme was also announced at this time with 13- to 18-year-old girls being offered the vaccine over the following two academic years. As a result of the success of these programmes, an accelerated catch-up programme was announced in December 2008 so that all girls born on or after 1 September 1990 could be protected before the end of the academic year 2009/10.

How do I get it?

It will depend how old you are and where you live. Younger girls are most likely to be given the vaccine at school, and older girls might be offered the vaccine through their GP.

Do I have to have it?

Vaccination is not compulsory – consent will be needed before the vaccination. For 12- to 13-year-olds it is most likely that a consent form signed by your parent or guardian will need to be supplied before the vaccine is given. Girls aged 16 and over are legally able to consent for themselves.  

In this guide