Vaccine against HPV

Key information about the vaccination

What is the HPV vaccination for?

The HPV vaccination is a preventive procedure aimed at protecting against infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Infection with certain HPV types is one of the main causes of cervical cancer and genital warts (condylomata acuminata).

There are over 100 types of HPV. Some cause benign lesions such as skin warts, while others may lead to the development of malignant cancers. Nearly 100% of cervical cancer cases are caused by a few HPV subtypes, primarily types 16 and 18, as well as 31, 33, and 45 – classified as high oncogenic risk types. 

HPV infections may also lead to cancers of the anus, oropharynx, vagina, vulva, and penis.

How does the vaccine work?

HPV vaccination stimulates the immune system to develop protection against HPV infection, significantly reducing the risk of cervical cancer.

The nine-valent vaccine protects against 9 HPV types: 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. Seven of these are responsible for nearly 90% of cervical cancer cases. The vaccine also prevents genital warts (condylomata acuminata) as well as cancers and precancerous lesions of the vulva, vagina, cervix, and anus.

When administered at a young age, the vaccine may provide protection against HPV for up to 50 years.

How many doses are included in the vaccination schedule? 

The vaccination schedule depends on the age of the person being vaccinated.

In children aged 9 to 14 years, two dosing schedules are possible:

• 2-dose schedule – the first dose is administered on any chosen day, and the second after 5–13 months; if the interval between doses is shorter than 5 months, a third dose is required;
• 3-dose schedule – all doses must be administered within 1 year; the first dose is given on a chosen day, the second approximately 2 months later, and the third no earlier than 3 months after the second dose.

In adolescents over 15 years of age and adults:

• 3-dose schedule – all injections must be completed within 1 year; the first dose is given on a chosen day, the second after approximately 2 months, and the third 6 months after the start of the vaccination cycle and at least 3 months after the second dose.

When is it worth getting vaccinated against HPV?

HPV infection occurs primarily through sexual contact with an infected person, most commonly soon aft

What does the vaccination visit look like?

After purchasing the vaccination, you must schedule a qualification visit. This visit is required each time before the vaccine is administered. The vaccination is carried out immediately after the qualification visit.

The product does not include qualification visits. Patients who do not have them covered under their healthcare plan must purchase the qualification separately.

The visit can be purchased and scheduled at the Medicover Medical Center reception desk or by phone via the helpline: 500 900 550.

Possible side effects after HPV vaccination

Possible side effects may include: fever, pain, redness, itching, or swelling at the injection site, as well as fatigue and headache or muscle pain.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ

Does HPV vaccination replace cervical screening (Pap smear tests)?

No. Vaccination does not replace regular cervical cytology (Pap smear) screening or the use of protective methods against sexually transmitted infections.

Can the HPV vaccine be administered together with other vaccines?

Yes, the HPV vaccine may be administered together with other vaccines after prior medical qualification.

How is the HPV vaccine administered?

The vaccine is administered intramuscularly in the deltoid muscle area or in the upper anterolateral part of the thigh.

Related medical consultations

• General Practitioner (Internist)