HPV is an extremely common sexually transmitted infection; most people encounter it during their lives and in most cases the body clears it. The problem comes from persistent infection with oncogenic types: these cause precancerous change and cancer of the cervix, and also cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis and oropharynx. Other types cause anogenital warts.
Two reasons. First, men develop HPV-associated cancers themselves, and oropharyngeal cancer in men is rising. Second, vaccinating both sexes interrupts transmission, protecting those who are not vaccinated. Modern vaccination programmes are therefore gender-neutral.
Vaccination is ideally given before sexual activity begins, when protection is greatest. The usual starting age is 9–12. The schedule depends on age at the first dose: under 15, two doses are sufficient, with an interval; from 15 onwards, three. This is immunology rather than marketing — adolescents mount a stronger immune response.
Vaccinating adults is also possible and discussed individually. It does not treat an existing infection but protects against the types you have not yet met — and the nine-valent vaccine covers nine of them.
Before vaccination a doctor examines the patient and checks for contraindications, as with any other vaccine.
A point often missed: the vaccine does not cover every oncogenic type, so vaccinated women continue cervical screening by age. Current guidance has moved away from an annual smear towards HPV testing every 5 years or cytology every 3 years, starting at 21–25 — more in our article on the annual gynecological check-up. Here a liquid-based Pap test is AED 300.
GMS vaccinates daily, and a gynecologist consultation is AED 600. The full list of vaccines and prices is on our vaccination page. Consultations in English and Russian.
This article is for information only and does not replace a consultation. If you have symptoms, see a doctor.
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