The HPV vaccine protects against human papillomavirus, a common sexually transmitted infection that is responsible for the majority of cervical cancers as well as several other cancers and conditions, including throat, anal, penile, vulval, and vaginal cancers, and genital warts. It is one of the most effective cancer-prevention tools available today, and when given at the right time, it can reduce the risk of cervical cancer by up to 90%. In the UK, the HPV vaccine is routinely offered to young people through the NHS school vaccination programme, but it is also available to older individuals who may have missed their dose or who were not eligible under the original programme. At Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter, we offer the HPV vaccine as part of our private vaccination service, providing a convenient, professional, and discreet option for those who want to protect themselves without waiting for an NHS appointment.
Book a consultation with our team today and take a proactive step towards long-term cancer prevention.
Key Takeaways
✔ The HPV vaccine protects against the strains of human papillomavirus most commonly linked to cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers.
✔ The NHS routinely offers the HPV vaccine to young people aged 11 to 13 through the school vaccination programme.
✔ The vaccine is most effective when given before any exposure to HPV, which is why early vaccination is strongly recommended.
✔ Individuals who missed the NHS programme can still benefit from the HPV vaccine, which is available privately at Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter.
✔ The current vaccine used in the UK, Gardasil 9, protects against nine strains of HPV, including those responsible for around 90% of cervical cancers.
✔ Getting vaccinated does not replace the need for regular cervical screening, which remains an important part of women’s health.
Understanding HPV and Why Vaccination Matters
Human papillomavirus is one of the most common viral infections in the world, with most sexually active people coming into contact with at least one strain of HPV at some point in their lives. In the majority of cases, the immune system clears the virus naturally without causing any symptoms or long-term harm. However, in some people, certain high-risk strains of HPV can persist and over time cause changes to cells that may develop into cancer.
Cervical cancer is the most well-known HPV-related cancer, but the virus is also responsible for a significant proportion of cancers of the throat, anus, penis, vulva, and vagina. Low-risk strains of HPV can also cause genital warts, which while not cancerous, can be distressing and difficult to treat. Vaccination against HPV is the single most powerful tool we have to prevent these outcomes, and its introduction into the UK national programme has already been associated with a dramatic reduction in the rates of cervical cancer among vaccinated age groups.
Who Is the HPV Vaccine Recommended For?
The HPV vaccine is recommended for a wide range of individuals, with the greatest benefit achieved when vaccination takes place before any exposure to the virus. The following groups are currently eligible or may benefit from the HPV vaccine:
| Group | NHS Eligibility | Private Option Available | Number of Doses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young people aged 11 to 13 (school programme) | Yes | Yes | 2 doses |
| Young people aged 14 to 25 who missed the school programme | Yes (catch-up) | Yes | 3 doses |
| Men who have sex with men (up to age 45) | Yes (sexual health clinics) | Yes | 3 doses |
| Adults over 25 seeking private vaccination | No | Yes | 3 doses |
| Transgender individuals | Eligible via NHS in some circumstances | Yes | 2 to 3 doses |
The Gardasil 9 Vaccine: What Does It Protect Against?
The vaccine currently used in the UK is Gardasil 9, which provides protection against nine strains of HPV. These include HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for around 70% of cervical cancers, as well as types 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58, which account for an additional 20% of cervical cancers. Gardasil 9 also protects against HPV types 6 and 11, which cause approximately 90% of genital wart cases.
The breadth of protection offered by Gardasil 9 represents a significant advance on earlier versions of the vaccine, and clinical trials have demonstrated very high levels of efficacy against the strains it covers when the vaccine is given before first exposure to HPV. It is also well tolerated, with the most common side effects being mild soreness or swelling at the injection site, a low-grade temperature, or brief feelings of dizziness after the injection.
Does the HPV Vaccine Replace Cervical Screening?
This is one of the most important points to understand about the HPV vaccine: vaccination is not a substitute for regular cervical screening. While Gardasil 9 offers protection against the HPV strains responsible for around 90% of cervical cancers, it does not protect against every possible cause, and it does not treat infections that may already be present at the time of vaccination. Cervical screening remains a vital tool for detecting cell changes early, before they develop into cancer.
All individuals with a cervix aged 25 to 64 in the UK are invited for regular cervical screening as part of the NHS cervical screening programme, regardless of their vaccination status. If you are due a smear test, please ensure you attend. Vaccination and screening together provide the strongest possible protection against cervical cancer.
Getting the HPV Vaccine at Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter
For those who have missed the NHS school programme, wish to vaccinate privately, or are seeking the vaccine for an adult family member, our team at Luxtons Pharmacy provides a straightforward, professional, and confidential HPV vaccination service. Our pharmacists will take a brief health history, confirm the most appropriate dosing schedule for your age and circumstances, and administer the vaccine in our private consultation room.
We understand that navigating vaccination options can feel complicated, particularly for parents wanting to ensure their children are protected or for adults who are unsure whether it is too late to benefit. Our team is here to answer your questions clearly and without judgement, ensuring you have all the information you need to make the right decision for yourself or your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions our team at Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter receives about the HPV vaccine.
Is it too late to get the HPV vaccine as an adult?
While the vaccine is most effective when given before any exposure to HPV, adults can still benefit from vaccination, particularly if they have not been exposed to all the strains covered by Gardasil 9. Our pharmacists can assess your individual circumstances and advise on whether the vaccine is likely to be beneficial for you.
How many doses of the HPV vaccine do I need?
The number of doses required depends on your age at first vaccination. Those who begin the course before the age of 15 typically require two doses, while those aged 15 and over require three doses given over a period of six months. Your pharmacist will confirm the correct schedule for you at your consultation.
Can boys and men receive the HPV vaccine?
Yes, the HPV vaccine is recommended for boys as well as girls. Since 2019, the NHS school programme has been offered to all eligible pupils regardless of gender. Men who have sex with men are also eligible for the HPV vaccine free of charge through sexual health clinics up to the age of 45.
Are there any reasons why someone should not receive the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is not recommended for people who are pregnant, and it should be delayed if you are currently unwell with a high temperature. It is also not suitable for those with a known severe allergy to any component of the vaccine. Your pharmacist will screen for any contraindications at your consultation.
How long does the HPV vaccine last?
Current evidence suggests that protection from the HPV vaccine is long-lasting, with studies showing sustained efficacy for at least 10 to 12 years following vaccination. Ongoing research continues to monitor long-term durability, and at present there is no recommendation for a booster dose.
Can I have the HPV vaccine if I am already sexually active?
Yes, sexually active individuals can still benefit from the HPV vaccine, as it is unlikely that you will have been exposed to all nine strains covered by Gardasil 9. The vaccine will not treat any existing HPV infection, but it can still provide protection against strains you have not yet encountered.
Protect Yourself Against HPV at Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter
At Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter, we are proud to offer the HPV vaccine as part of our commitment to proactive, preventive healthcare for our community. Whether you are a parent exploring vaccination options for your child, a young adult who missed the school programme, or an older individual seeking private vaccination, our experienced and approachable team is here to help. Cancer prevention should never be out of reach. Book now to speak to one of our pharmacists and take a confident step towards protecting your long-term health.
