HPV Vaccine Prevents Cancer For Both Men and Women
The HPV vaccine is one of the most important vaccines for preventing cancers caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the leading cause of cervical cancer. It is also associated with other serious diseases, including penile, throat, and anal cancers, as well as genital warts.
HPV vaccination helps the body build immunity before exposure to the virus — especially effective when given during adolescence or before sexual activity begins. This early protection significantly lowers the risk of future infections and related cancers.
For those considering the HPV vaccine, understanding the different vaccine types, the best age to get vaccinated, possible side effects, and post-vaccination care can help you make an informed decision with your doctor’s guidance.
What Is the HPV Vaccine and Why Is It Important
The HPV vaccine helps protect against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common infection that can cause cervical cancer and other sexually transmitted diseases such as genital warts, as well as oral and anal cancers.
HPV spreads easily through sexual contact and often shows no symptoms in its early stages. Getting vaccinated builds immunity against high-risk HPV strains such as types 16 and 18, which are responsible for most cervical cancer cases.
Receiving the HPV vaccine at a young age, under medical supervision, is an effective way to reduce the risk of developing future cancers — for both women and men.
Common HPV Strains Found in Thailand
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) has over 100 types, but not all of them cause serious illness. Certain high-risk strains are directly linked to cervical cancer and other sexually transmitted infections.
In Thailand, the most common high-risk HPV types are 16, 18, 52, and 58 — the main causes of cervical cancer among Thai women. Low-risk types, such as 6 and 11, are often responsible for genital warts but rarely develop into cancer.
Understanding which HPV strains are most prevalent in a specific region helps doctors select the most suitable vaccine type to ensure broader protection and long-term effectiveness.
What Diseases Does the HPV Vaccine Prevent?
The HPV vaccine does more than just prevent cervical cancer. It also helps reduce the risk of infections caused by HPV that can lead to other sexually transmitted diseases and various types of cancers, including oral, throat, anal, and penile cancer.
The quadrivalent vaccine (Gardasil 4) protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18 — covering both low-risk and high-risk strains. The nonavalent vaccine (Gardasil 9) extends this protection to types 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58, offering broader coverage that matches the strains most commonly found in Thailand.
HPV vaccination is therefore an effective way to prevent multiple diseases at once, reducing the risk of HPV-related cancers and helping limit virus transmission in the community.
Types of HPV Vaccines and Their Differences (Gardasil 4 vs Gardasil 9)
There are two main types of HPV vaccines available today — Gardasil 4 and Gardasil 9. They differ in the number of HPV strains they protect against and the level of coverage suitable for different regions.
Gardasil 4 protects against four HPV types: 6, 11, 16, and 18 — the most common strains linked to genital warts and cervical cancer. Gardasil 9, on the other hand, extends protection to nine types by including 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58, which are more prevalent in Asia, including Thailand.
Both vaccines are approved by the Thai FDA for safety and effectiveness. Choosing the right one should be based on medical consultation, age, and individual risk factors.
What Is the Best Age to Get the HPV Vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to the virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Thai Ministry of Public Health recommend vaccination between the ages of 9–14, when the immune system responds most strongly.
People aged 15–26 can still benefit from vaccination, but they require a full three-dose schedule. For those over 26, vaccination may still offer protection in certain cases, though a doctor’s assessment is recommended to determine suitability.
Receiving the HPV vaccine at the recommended age provides the strongest immune response and significantly reduces the risk of HPV infection later in life.
How Many Doses of the HPV Vaccine Are Needed and How Far Apart?
The number of HPV vaccine doses depends on age and medical guidelines. For those aged 9–14, two doses are recommended, spaced about 6–12 months apart, which provides strong and lasting immunity.
For people aged 15–26, a three-dose schedule is advised: the second dose should be given 1–2 months after the first, and the third dose 6 months after the second. This ensures maximum immune protection against HPV infection.
Completing the full vaccination schedule is essential. Missing or delaying doses may reduce the vaccine’s effectiveness and lower the body’s protection against HPV-related diseases.
Are There Any Side Effects of the HPV Vaccine and Is It Dangerous?
The HPV vaccine is considered very safe and has been approved by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Thai FDA. Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, and occasionally low-grade fever or mild fatigue.
These symptoms usually disappear within a day or two and are not harmful to overall health. Individuals with a history of allergic reactions to vaccines or vaccine ingredients should inform their doctor before receiving the shot to ensure proper precautions.
Getting vaccinated in a certified medical facility by qualified healthcare professionals helps minimize risk and ensures the highest level of safety.
Do You Need an HPV Booster? How Long Does It Last?
Currently, an HPV booster shot is not required for individuals who have completed the full vaccination schedule. Research shows that immunity from the HPV vaccine can last for at least 10–12 years, providing strong and sustained protection against the virus.
Long-term studies in several countries have found that protection remains effective for over 15 years without the need for an additional booster. However, if new medical evidence suggests otherwise, doctors may later recommend booster doses for high-risk groups.
Those who previously received the quadrivalent vaccine (Gardasil 4) and wish to extend protection against more HPV types can consult their doctor about getting the nonavalent vaccine (Gardasil 9) for broader coverage.
Who Should Not Get the HPV Vaccine or Should Postpone It?
The HPV vaccine is generally very safe, but there are certain situations where vaccination should be delayed or avoided temporarily. Individuals who have experienced a severe allergic reaction to a previous HPV dose or any of its components — such as yeast or preservatives — should not receive the vaccine.
Pregnant women are advised to postpone HPV vaccination until after giving birth, even though no harmful effects on the baby have been reported. Breastfeeding women, however, can safely receive the vaccine.
Anyone with a high fever or acute illness should wait until recovery before getting vaccinated, to allow the body to respond properly and minimize the risk of side effects.
How to Take Care of Yourself After Getting the HPV Vaccine
After receiving the HPV vaccine, it’s recommended to stay at the clinic for at least 15–30 minutes for observation, in case of dizziness or allergic reactions. Avoid heavy exercise or lifting weights within the first 24 hours to prevent increased soreness at the injection site.
Drink plenty of water, get enough rest, and you may take mild pain relievers or fever reducers if you experience discomfort or a slight fever — these are normal immune responses.
If you experience severe redness, swelling, high fever, or a widespread rash, consult your doctor immediately for evaluation and appropriate care.
Is the HPV Vaccine Suitable for Men?
Many people think the HPV vaccine is only for women to prevent cervical cancer, but men can benefit from it as well. HPV infection can cause cancers of the penis, mouth, throat, and anus in men.
The virus also causes genital warts, a common sexually transmitted disease among men. Vaccination helps prevent infection and reduces the risk of spreading the virus to partners.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends HPV vaccination for males aged 9–26, especially during adolescence or early adulthood, to build strong immunity and lower the risk of HPV-related diseases later in life.
Where to Get the HPV Vaccine and How to Prepare
The HPV vaccine should be administered at certified medical facilities such as clinics, hospitals, or specialized health centers under the supervision of qualified doctors or nurses. Proper storage and handling of the vaccine are essential for its safety and effectiveness.
Before vaccination, inform your doctor of any allergies, past vaccine reactions, chronic illnesses, or medications you are taking. If you have a fever or acute illness, it’s best to postpone the vaccination until recovery.
After receiving the shot, stay at the clinic for 15–30 minutes for observation, and avoid heavy exercise on the same day to allow your body to adjust and minimize soreness at the injection site.
Conclusion
HPV vaccination is one of the most effective preventive measures against cancer. Global studies have confirmed that it significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer, with over 90% of cases linked to high-risk HPV strains such as types 16 and 18.
The vaccine also helps lower the risk of other HPV-related cancers — including oral, throat, anal, and penile cancers — as well as genital warts. Getting vaccinated at a young age, before potential exposure, provides the highest level of protection.
In summary, the HPV vaccine is a proven, long-term investment in health for both men and women, effectively reducing the likelihood of several serious diseases caused by HPV.
FAQ
Does the HPV vaccine prevent infection 100%?
Not completely. It protects against the high-risk HPV strains that cause over 90% of cervical cancer cases.
Can I get the HPV vaccine if I’ve already had sex?
Yes. Even if you’ve been sexually active, the vaccine can still protect you against HPV types you haven’t yet been exposed to.
Do men need the HPV vaccine?
Yes. HPV can cause penile, throat, and anal cancers, as well as genital warts, so men benefit from vaccination too.
How long does HPV vaccine protection last?
Studies show strong protection for at least 10–12 years with no current need for a booster dose.
Are there any restrictions after getting the HPV shot?
You can resume normal activities, but avoid heavy exercise on the same day and get adequate rest.
Reference
- (World Health Organization – WHO) ข้อมูลพื้นฐานเกี่ยวกับ HPV, มะเร็งปากมดลูก และแนวทางการฉีดวัคซีนในระดับโลก
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC – USA) แนวทางการฉีดวัคซีน HPV แยกตามช่วงอายุ, เพศ, และจำนวนเข็ม
- กรมควบคุมโรค: แนวทางการให้บริการวัคซีน HPV
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