Is the HPV vaccine effective for adults?

Is the HPV vaccine effective for adults?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral infection that can lead to genital warts and several cancers, including cervical, anal and oropharyngeal cancers. Vaccination against HPV is highly effective in adolescents, but many adults wonder whether getting the HPV vaccine later in life still provides meaningful protection.

What the research shows about the HPV vaccine for adults
Walker et al. (2019) reviewed clinical trials of the 9-valent HPV vaccine (9vHPV) in women aged 27–45. Key findings included:

• Among women with no prior exposure to the targeted HPV types, vaccination reduced persistent infection and related disease by 88–96%.
• Women with previous exposure saw smaller benefits but still had some protection against types they had not yet encountered.
• Safety profiles in adults were comparable to those in younger age groups.

Other credible studies and public health data reinforce these points:

• Vaccine efficacy is highest in HPV-naïve individuals.
• Even if you’ve been exposed to one or more HPV types, the vaccine can still protect against the types you haven’t had.
• Side effects are generally mild (soreness at the injection site, headache, fatigue).

Why HPV vaccination in adults matters
Although routine vaccination is recommended for ages 11–12 (with catch-up through age 26), adults aged 27–45 can still gain benefits through “shared clinical decision-making” (SCDM). Reasons to consider vaccination include:

• New or future sexual partners, which raise the chance of exposure to HPV types you haven’t encountered.
• A desire to reduce personal cancer risk, even if the absolute benefit is smaller than in younger age groups.
• Peace of mind from added protection.

U.S. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) guidance
In 2019, ACIP updated its HPV vaccine recommendations:

• Routine vaccination through age 26.
• For adults 27–45, vaccination is not routinely recommended but may be offered after a healthcare provider and patient discuss potential benefits and risks.
• Decisions should be individualized, taking into account the person’s risk of new HPV infections and personal preferences.

Benefits and limitations in adults
Benefits

• Significant reduction in infection and disease from HPV types you haven’t yet encountered.
• Safe and well-tolerated, with side effects similar to those seen in younger individuals.
• May lower the risk of developing genital warts and certain cancers.

Limitations

• Many adults have already been exposed to one or more HPV types, so overall benefit is less than in adolescents.
• You cannot reverse past HPV-related disease or clear existing infections with vaccination.
• Cost and insurance coverage may vary; many insurance plans cover FDA-recommended adult vaccination.

Who should consider the HPV vaccine for adults?
Talk with your healthcare provider if you:

• Are 27–45 years old and want to reduce your risk of future HPV infections.
• Expect to have new sexual partners.
• Have concerns about HPV-related cancers or genital warts.
• Have no serious contraindications (severe allergic reaction to a prior dose, pregnancy—vaccination should be deferred).

How to discuss HPV vaccination with your doctor

1. Review your personal and sexual history.
2. Ask about your current HPV immunity or prior screening results (e.g., Pap test, HPV DNA test).
3. Weigh the potential benefits (protection against new HPV types) against the known limitations.
4. Consider timing—ideally you’re not pregnant, and vaccination should be completed before any further HPV exposure.

Safety and side effects
The HPV vaccine has a strong safety record in clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance. Common side effects include:

• Injection site pain, redness or swelling
• Headache, fatigue
• Low-grade fever
  Serious adverse events are rare. Let your provider know if you have a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines.

Next steps and practical tips

• If you’re unsure about symptoms or risks, you might consider doing a free, online symptom check for any concerning issues before scheduling a vaccine consultation.
• Check your insurance benefits: most plans cover HPV vaccination through age 26, and many cover shared-decision vaccinations up to age 45.
• Keep a record of your vaccination dates and doses—3 doses over 6 months for those who started at age 15 or older.

When to speak to a doctor urgently
If you experience any of the following, seek medical attention right away:

• Signs of anaphylaxis (difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat) after vaccination
• Severe or persistent fever
• Any symptom you believe could be life-threatening or serious

Speak to a doctor about anything life-threatening or serious, and follow their guidance on HPV vaccination and screening.

Bottom line

• The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections and related disease from HPV types you haven’t yet encountered.
• Adults 27–45 can still benefit, though the overall reduction in risk is smaller compared to younger individuals.
• The decision to vaccinate in this age group should be made together with a healthcare provider, based on personal risk factors and preferences.
• Vaccination is safe, with mostly mild side effects.
• Always discuss any urgent or serious symptoms with a medical professional.