Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the name of a very common group of viruses. They do not cause any problems in most people, but some types can cause genital warts or cancer.
HPV affects the skin. There are more than 100 different types.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) FAQs
Most of the time HPV does not cause any problems.
In some people, some types of HPV can cause:
- genital warts
- abnormal changes in the cells that can sometimes turn into cancer
HPV types linked to cancer are called high-risk types.
Cancers linked to high-risk HPV include:
- cervical cancer
- anal cancer
- penile cancer
- vulval cancer
- vaginal cancer
- some types of head and neck cancer
You can have HPV for many years without it causing problems.
You can have it even if you have not been sexually active or had a new partner for many years.
HPV types linked to cancer are called high-risk types.
Cancers linked to high-risk HPV include:
The HPV vaccine helps protect against human papillomavirus (HPV). It's recommended for children aged 12 to 13 years old and people at higher risk from HPV.
The HPV vaccine reduces your chances of getting human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that's spread through skin contact (usually when having sex).
Most types of HPV are harmless. But some types are linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including:
HPV can also cause genital warts.
The HPV vaccine works very well in reducing your risk of getting HPV.
Since the vaccine has been used, there has been a big drop in the number of young people getting conditions linked to HPV, such as cervical cancer and genital warts.
Research suggests that over time the HPV vaccine will help save thousands of lives in the UK.
The most common side effects of the HPV vaccine are mild and do not last long.
They can include:
- swelling or pain where the injection was given
- a headache
- a high temperature
- dizziness
- feeling sick
- tiredness
More serious side effects such as a severe allergic reaction are very rare. The person who vaccinates you will be trained to deal with allergic reactions and treat them immediately.
It's still important to attend cervical screening appointments if you've been vaccinated against HPV, as there's still a small chance you could get cervical cancer.
There are currently no screening programmes for other HPV-related cancers. If you are worried about any symptoms, speak to your GP practice.
It's still important to attend cervical screening appointments if you've been vaccinated against HPV, as there's still a small chance you could get cervical cancer.
If you’ve already had sex, and are in the relevant age group, it is important you should still have the vaccine.
There is 1 type of HPV vaccine given in the UK. You can check the ingredients in the patient leaflet:
Gardasil 9 HPV vaccine patient leaflet (Electronic Medicines Compendium website)