As a gynecologic oncologist, I spend a lot of my time caring for patients battling cancers that could have been prevented. That reality is tough and doesn’t get easier. But it does make me passionate about learning and educating our community about one of the most powerful tools we have in cancer prevention today: the HPV vaccine.
Although the vaccine has been available for nearly 20 years, many people still have questions and, understandably, some confusion about what it does and who needs it.
I want to help clear up some of those misnomers, give you the facts, and help you feel confident in understanding this lifesaving vaccine for both men and women.
What Is HPV?
HPV stands for human papillomavirus. It’s the most commonly diagnosed sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States.
This STI is far more common than many realize. The majority of sexually active people, up to 90% of men and 80% of women, will contract HPV at some point in their lives, according to the CDC.
Most infections cause no symptoms and go away on their own. However, when the body cannot clear the virus, HPV can trigger abnormal cell changes that can lead to genital warts, precancer,or cancer.
There are more than a dozen high-risk HPV types associated with cancers of the:
- Cervix
- Vagina
- Vulva
- Penis
- Anus
- Mouth and throat
In the United States, approximately 9 out of every 10 cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV and could have been prevented with vaccination. Contrary to popular belief, HPV also affects men, with 4 out of every 10 HPV related cancers occurring among men.
HPV spreads primarily through vaginal, oral, or anal sex, but skin-to-skin genital contact is enough to transmit it, even without intercourse.
Why the HPV vaccine matters
From where I sit as an oncologist, the HPV vaccine is remarkable. In medicine, we usually only treat a disease after it happens, rarely do we have the opportunity to prevent it from happening in the first place – especially with cancer. But this vaccine allows us to do exactly that.
Right now, only two vaccines exist that can reduce cancer risk:
- The hepatitis B vaccine helps prevent liver cancer.
- The HPV vaccine, which prevents multiple cancer types.
Since FDA approval in 2006, the HPV vaccine has proven extraordinarily effective. According to the CDC:
- HPV infections that cause cancer and genital warts have dropped by 88% in teen girls and 81% in young women.
- Cervical precancers caused by HPV have decreased by 40%.
HPV vaccine side effects
The vaccine is also very safe. It has undergone extensive testing and continuous safety monitoring. Typical side effects are mild, such as arm soreness or redness. Some people, especially adolescents, may briefly feel lightheaded after receiving any vaccine, including this one.
One thing I want to be clear about: the HPV vaccine cannot cause HPV infection, cancer, or infertility. These concerns come up often, and I can understand why, but the evidence is consistent and reassuring.
Who should get the HPV vaccine?
Ages 9–26
The CDC recommends vaccination at 11–12 years old, and the American Academy of Pediatrics supports vaccination as early as age 9.
Why vaccinate early? Preteens generate a stronger immune response than older teens, and we want to establish protection before any potential exposure to the virus.
Ages 27–45
Vaccination is not routinely recommended for this age group, but some adults may benefit based on individual risk. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether it makes sense for you.
A note about men and boys
HPV infections are often thought of as only a women’s health issue, but they aren’t. Vaccinating boys and men is equally important. Many HPV-related cancers, especially throat and anal cancers, have no reliable screening tests, making prevention the best option we have.
Other ways to protect your health
The HPV vaccine is powerful, but it doesn’t protect against all cancer-causing HPV types. Additional steps remain important:
Practice safer sex
- Use condoms consistently and correctly.
- Be aware that HPV can still spread through uncovered skin.
- A mutually monogamous relationship can reduce risk, though it does not eliminate it.
Continue cervical cancer screening
Even if you’re vaccinated, regular screening remains important. Here are the current guidelines for individuals with a cervix:
- Ages 21–29: Pap smear every 3 years
- Ages 30–65:
- Pap smear every 3 years
- HPV test every 5 years
- Pap + HPV co-testing every 5 years
Your provider may recommend more frequent testing based on personal and family medical history.
Smoking cessation
Smoking is associated with an increase in the development of HPV-related cancers. This is because smoking decreases your own body’s ability to fight off the HPV infection. When the HPV infection is persistent in your body, your risk of precancers or cancer increases.
Support your immune system
A strong immune system helps clear HPV infections. Simple, healthy habits include:
- Regular physical activity
- A balanced, antioxidant-rich diet
- Adequate sleep
- Stress management
Have more questions? We’re here.
If you have questions or if you’re unsure whether you or your child should receive the HPV vaccine, reach out to a trusted healthcare provider. It’s available through:
- Pediatricians, who administer most adolescent vaccines.
- Family medicine physicians and primary care providers.
- OB/GYNs, who can guide patients through cervical cancer prevention at all ages.
- Adolescent gynecology specialists, who offer age‑appropriate, comprehensive care for younger female patients navigating puberty, menstrual health, and vaccination decisions.
If your child is approaching age 9–12, consider scheduling a visit with their pediatrician or, for girls and teens who may benefit from a more specialized approach, an adolescent gynecologist. For adults up to age 26, or in some cases up to age 45, your OB/GYN or primary care provider can help determine whether the HPV vaccine is recommended for you.
The HPV vaccine is one of the safest and most effective tools we have to prevent several types of cancer. When you’re ready, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to get the conversation started.