The HPV vaccine has dramatically changed how we prevent cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. In England alone, around 76.7% of Year 10 girls had received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine in the 2023-2024 academic year. Yet many adults still wonder if it’s too late to benefit. Although the HPV vaccine is usually given during the teenage years, adults can still gain meaningful protection from it — particularly those who missed it when younger or may not have been exposed to all HPV strains.
What Is the HPV Vaccine, and How Does It Work?
The HPV vaccine helps protect against the human papillomavirus (HPV)—a very common virus that can cause genital warts and several cancers, including cervical, throat, and anal cancer. It works by training your immune system to recognise and fight the virus before it can cause harm.
HPV Prevention in Simple Terms
Once vaccinated, your body develops antibodies against HPV strains covered by the jab. This makes infection far less likely if you come into contact with the virus later.
Types of HPV Vaccine Used in the UK
The vaccine most commonly used in the UK is Gardasil 9, which protects against nine strains of HPV known to cause most cases of cervical cancer and genital warts.
Can Adults Still Get the HPV Vaccine in the UK?
Yes. Although the NHS offers it mainly to young people aged 12 to 13, adults who missed their vaccination can still receive it privately. The HPV jab in the UK is available for women and men up to the age of 45 through private pharmacies and clinics.
Why Age Matters
The vaccine works best before exposure to HPV, which is why it’s offered in adolescence. However, adults can still benefit, especially if they haven’t been exposed to all HPV strains or have had few sexual partners. Even if you’ve been sexually active, the vaccine can still protect you from strains you haven’t yet encountered.
HPV Vaccine for Adults: Who Should Consider It?
- Adults who missed their teenage doses
- People with new or multiple partners
- Those at higher risk of HPV-related conditions
- Men who have sex with men (MSM), as they are at greater risk of HPV-linked cancers
Our pharmacists can help you assess your risk and discuss whether the HPV vaccine is suitable for you.
How Effective Is the Cervical Cancer Vaccine in Adults?
Studies show that the HPV vaccine can still provide strong protection in adults who haven’t been exposed to all covered strains. The immune response may be slightly lower compared to younger people, but it still significantly reduces the risk of HPV-related infections and diseases.
What About Cervical Cancer Protection?
For women, vaccination can lower the risk of cervical cancer by preventing infection from the HPV types most likely to cause it. Routine cervical screening (smear tests) remains essential even if you’ve had the vaccine.
Protection for Men
Men also benefit from reduced risk of genital warts and certain cancers, such as penile and throat cancers linked to HPV infection.
Are There Any HPV Vaccine Side Effects?
Like most vaccines, the HPV jab can cause mild side effects, which are generally short-lived.
Common Side Effects
- Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site
- Mild fever or headache
- Feeling tired or unwell for a day or two
Rare or Serious Reactions
Serious reactions are very rare. If you experience breathing difficulties, dizziness, or swelling after your vaccination, consult our pharmacist immediately.
Most people tolerate the HPV vaccine well, and the benefits of protection far outweigh the risks.
Is It Too Late to Protect Yourself from HPV?
It’s never too late to take steps to protect your health. Even if you’re past the usual vaccination age, getting the HPV vaccine as an adult can still reduce your risk of infection and related cancers. Combined with regular check-ups and safe practices, it’s one of the best defences you can have against HPV.
How to Get the HPV Jab in the UK
For adults who are not part of the routine vaccination programme, the HPV vaccine is easily available through private clinics and pharmacies. Touchwood Pharmacy offers the HPV vaccine for both men and women, providing a convenient and confidential way to stay protected against HPV-related diseases.
Our trained pharmacists will:
- Review your vaccination history
- Explain the potential benefits and side effects
- Administer the vaccine safely and conveniently
Book your appointment with our experts at Touchwood Pharmacy to protect yourself with the HPV vaccine and lower your risk of HPV-related diseases.
FAQs About the HPV Vaccine for Adults
Can I get the HPV vaccine if I’m over 25?
Yes, you can. While the NHS routinely offers the HPV vaccine to teenagers, adults over 25 can receive it privately in the UK. It is available to both men and women up to age 45 at registered pharmacies and clinics. The vaccine can still offer protection against HPV strains you may not have been exposed to yet.
Is the HPV vaccine effective for adults who are already sexually active?
Yes. Even if you are sexually active, you may not have been exposed to all the HPV strains covered by the vaccine. Getting vaccinated can still reduce your risk of infection and related conditions such as genital warts and certain cancers.
Do men benefit from the HPV vaccine too?
Absolutely. The HPV vaccine helps protect men against genital warts and several types of cancer, including anal, penile, and throat cancers linked to HPV infection. Men who have sex with men (MSM) are particularly encouraged to consider vaccination due to their higher risk.
How many doses of the HPV vaccine do adults need?
Adults usually need three doses of the HPV vaccine for full protection, given over six months. Our pharmacist will advise you on the correct schedule based on your age and vaccination history.
Are there any risks or side effects from the HPV vaccine?
Most side effects are mild and short-term, such as soreness at the injection site, a mild fever, or tiredness. Serious side effects are extremely rare. The vaccine is considered safe and is approved by the MHRA for use in the UK.
Where can I get the HPV vaccine as an adult in the UK?
Adults who missed the vaccine at school can get it privately from pharmacies such as Touchwood Pharmacy. Our qualified pharmacists can review your medical history, explain the benefits, and provide the HPV vaccine safely and conveniently.
