What does the HPV vaccine do?
The HPV vaccine protects against the human papillomavirus strains most associated with cancer and genital warts. The currently used vaccine in the UK (Gardasil 9) covers nine HPV types — including high-risk strains 16 and 18, which together cause around 70% of cervical cancers, and strains 6 and 11, which cause 90% of genital warts. The vaccine is most effective when given before any exposure to HPV, which is why it is routinely offered to children aged 11–13 through the NHS school programme.
Can adults get the HPV vaccine?
Yes. In the UK, HPV vaccination is available on the NHS to: men who have sex with men (MSM) up to and including age 45 through sexual health clinics; people with HIV up to age 45; and young people who missed the school programme up to age 25. For adults outside these groups, private vaccination is available. The vaccine is less effective the more HPV types a person has already been exposed to, but evidence suggests it still provides meaningful protection against strains not yet acquired.
Is it worth vaccinating if you are already sexually active?
Yes, for most people. While the vaccine cannot clear existing infections, it protects against strains you have not yet been exposed to. Most sexually active adults will not have been infected with all nine strains covered by Gardasil 9. Studies in adults have shown the vaccine reduces rates of new HPV infection and associated conditions. Sexual health clinicians can provide personalised advice based on your situation.
What about cervical screening?
Cervical screening (smear tests) and HPV vaccination work together — they are complementary, not alternatives. The NHS cervical screening programme invites people with a cervix aged 25–64 every 3–5 years. Primary HPV testing is now used as the first-line test in England, looking for high-risk HPV strains before any cell changes develop. Even vaccinated people should continue to attend cervical screening, as the vaccine does not cover all high-risk HPV strains.