Doctors recommend that all girls and boys get the HPV vaccine series at age 11 or 12 — though it's possible to get the vaccine as early as age 9. HPV vaccination can protect people from serious cancers later in life.
HPV vaccination can protect men and women from the infections that cause most cases of anal cancer, mouth/throat cancer, and genital warts — as well as many cases of cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancer in women, and penile cancer in men.
HPV vaccine is given in 2 doses at age 11 or 12:
- 1st dose: Now
- 2nd dose: 6 to 12 months after the first dose
For teens and young adults who start the series at age 15 or older, HPV vaccine is given in 3 doses:
- 1st dose: Now
- 2nd dose: 1 to 2 months after the first dose
- 3rd dose: 6 months after the first dose
To get the best protection from the HPV vaccine, it’s important to get all doses on time — and before coming in contact with HPV. Experts believe that the vaccines protect people from HPV infection for a long time.
For Girls and Women
The HPV vaccine can protect girls and women from the types of HPV that cause most cases of cervical cancer and also protect people from most cases of genital warts. Additionally, it has been shown to protect against cancer of the vagina, vulva, anus, and mouth/throat.
HPV vaccine is recommended for girls at age 11 or 12, though it can be given starting at age 9. Doctors also recommend the vaccine for women ages 13 to 26 who did not get the recommended doses when they were younger. It’s important to note that women who get the HPV vaccine still need regular screening tests for cervical cancer (Pap tests).
For Boys and Men
The HPV vaccine protects boys and men from most cases of genital warts and cancers of the anus, penis, and mouth/throat. The vaccine is recommended for boys at age 11 or 12, though it can be given starting at age 9. Doctors also recommend the vaccine for men ages 13 to 22 who did not get the recommended doses when they were younger.
Additionally, doctors recommend HPV vaccine for men through age 26 if:
- They have sex with men
- They have certain conditions that compromise their immune system (for example, if they have HIV)
Want to learn more?
Check out answers to common questions about HPV vaccines.
Last reviewed: November 2016