HPV Vaccine (Gardasil 9)

The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) is a highly effective way to protect against nine types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which are the leading cause of cervical cancer, genital warts, and several other cancers including throat, anal, and some rarer genital cancers. Gardasil 9 is approved in the UK and is recommended for both women and men. The best time to receive the vaccine is before becoming sexually active, but significant benefit is gained at almost any age up to 45 years. Preventing HPV infection is a vital step towards cervical cancer prevention and maintaining long-term sexual health.

Course of 1 or 2 vaccines

Per dose

£150

Per course

£150 - £300

Frequently Asked Questions about the HPV Vaccine

Who should have the HPV vaccine?2025-07-22T09:49:28+01:00

Anyone up to their 45th birthday, ideally before becoming sexually active, and especially those who haven’t completed the course.

Can adults have the HPV vaccine?2025-07-22T09:49:44+01:00

Yes, Gardasil 9 is licensed up to age 45.

Is one dose enough?2025-07-22T09:50:07+01:00

For people under 25, one dose is currently recommended by the NHS and Green Book; ages 25-45 require two doses; immunocompromised individuals need three.

Where can I get the HPV vaccine?2025-07-22T09:50:26+01:00

You can get Gardasil 9 at our clinic in Ealing, London. We are based inside of Northfield Pharmacy.

I’m 30 years old – is it too late for HPV vaccine?2025-10-17T09:37:45+01:00

Not at all. Gardasil 9 is licensed and effective up to age 45. At £150 per dose (£300 total for 2 doses), you’ll get protection against nine HPV types. Even if you’ve been sexually active, you’re unlikely to have encountered all nine strains. Book your HPV Vaccine in West London here.

How much does the complete HPV vaccination cost in London?2025-10-17T09:38:46+01:00

At Ealing Travel Clinic, it’s £150 per dose. Most people need 2 doses (£300 total), given 6-12 months apart. Those with weakened immune systems need 3 doses (£450 total). No hidden consultation fees or charges – the price includes everything. This is competitive for HPV vaccine costs in London.

What’s the difference between Gardasil 9 and the NHS vaccine?2025-10-17T09:40:39+01:00

It’s the same vaccine! The NHS now uses Gardasil 9, which protects against 9 HPV types. The only difference is the NHS provides it free for under-25s, while anyone 25-45 needs private vaccination. Ealing Travel Clinic provides exactly the same Gardasil 9 vaccine used by the NHS.

Can men have the HPV vaccine in London?2025-10-17T09:43:01+01:00

Absolutely. HPV causes cancers and genital warts in men too. The vaccine is equally effective for men up to age 45. Many men get vaccinated at Ealing Travel Clinic to protect themselves and their partners. Same price, same schedule – £300 for complete protection.

I had my first HPV vaccine dose 2 years ago – do I need to start again?2025-10-17T09:44:14+01:00

No! There’s no maximum interval between doses. You can have your second dose now without restarting. Just bring any documentation of your first dose to Ealing Travel Clinic, and we’ll complete your course. One more dose at £150 and you’re fully protected.

Will I need a HPV vaccine booster in the future?2025-10-17T14:50:59+01:00

Current evidence shows protection lasts at least 10 years, likely much longer. Antibody levels remain stable over time with no signs of waning immunity. You won’t need annual boosters like flu vaccines. Ealing Travel Clinic will update patients if guidance changes.

Can I have HPV vaccine with other vaccines?2025-10-17T14:51:18+01:00

Yes, HPV vaccine can be given alongside travel vaccines, flu jabs, or COVID boosters. Ealing Travel Clinic is a full travel vaccination centre, so we can provide all your vaccinations in one visit. Many people get HPV vaccine while sorting travel jabs.

What if I faint with needles?2025-10-17T14:51:43+01:00

Very common concern! We see needle-phobic patients daily at Ealing Travel Clinic. We can vaccinate you lying down, use distraction techniques, and monitor you carefully. The injection takes seconds. Our calm environment and experienced staff make it manageable for everyone.

Do I still need smear tests after HPV vaccination?2025-10-17T14:52:07+01:00

Yes, cervical screening remains important. The vaccine prevents 90% of cervical cancers, not 100%. Vaccinated women should still attend screening from age 25. Think of it as double protection – vaccine prevents most cancers, screening catches anything else early.

Is HPV vaccine covered by private health insurance in the UK?2025-10-17T14:52:30+01:00

Some insurers cover it, particularly for under-25s or high-risk groups. Ealing Travel Clinic provides detailed receipts for insurance claims. Check your policy or call your insurer. Many London employers also cover it through occupational health schemes. We can provide whatever documentation you need.

Will HPV vaccine side effects affect my work?2025-11-05T15:07:57+00:00

Most people work normally the next day. If your job involves heavy lifting, your sore arm might be uncomfortable but manageable. Only 10% of people experience any tiredness, and it’s mild.

Are HPV vaccine side effects worse than COVID vaccine?2025-11-05T15:11:23+00:00

Most people report HPV vaccine side effects are milder than COVID vaccines. Less systemic reaction, mainly just arm soreness. If you managed COVID vaccines, HPV will be easy.

Can I exercise after HPV vaccine?2025-11-05T15:12:26+00:00

Yes, light exercise is fine and can actually help with arm stiffness. Maybe skip heavy weights for 48 hours if your arm is sore. Most people return to full exercise within 2-3 days.

What if I have side effects before my second dose?2025-11-05T15:13:33+00:00

Having mild side effects from dose one doesn’t mean dose two will be worse. Most people have similar or milder reactions to their second dose. Discuss any concerns with your pharmacist.

Can I take painkillers before the vaccine to prevent side effects?2025-11-05T15:14:02+00:00

It’s better to wait and see if you need them. Paracetamol after is fine if you develop soreness. Some studies suggest taking painkillers before might slightly reduce vaccine effectiveness.

Will I definitely get side effects?2025-11-05T15:14:58+00:00

No! Around 30% of people have no side effects at all, and another 40% only have mild arm soreness. Only 30% experience any other mild effects like headache or tiredness.

How do HPV vaccine side effects compare to other vaccines?2025-11-05T15:18:47+00:00

Similar to tetanus or flu vaccines – mainly arm soreness. Generally milder than vaccines like COVID or typhoid. If you’ve had routine vaccines before, you know what to expect.

Travel Precautions

Although the HPV vaccine is not strictly a travel vaccination, HPV is found worldwide and is easily spread through sexual contact. Gardasil 9 is recommended for:

  • Teenagers and adults up to their 45th birthday who have not received the vaccine before
  • Anyone about to travel or move abroad, especially to areas with limited cervical screening or high rates of HPV
  • Individuals starting new relationships, particularly with partners from regions where HPV is common
  • Anyone wishing to reduce their risk of genital warts or HPV-linked cancers

HPV vaccination is available through the NHS for young people, and privately at clinics in London and across the UK. It can be given at the same time as other vaccines, including travel vaccines.

Signs & Symptoms

Most HPV infections do not cause any symptoms and people are often unaware they have the virus. However, certain types of HPV can cause:

  • Cervical cancer (the most common outcome)
  • Other cancers such as of the anus, penis, vagina, vulva, and oropharynx (throat)
  • Genital warts, which may appear as small bumps or growths on the genitals
  • Less commonly, warts in the mouth or throat

Most infections are cleared by the immune system, but persistent infection with high-risk strains can lead to serious health problems, sometimes years after exposure.

The Vaccination

Gardasil 9 is given as an injection, most commonly in the upper arm:

  • People under 25 years: One single dose of HPV vaccine is recommended
  • People aged 25 + : Two doses, given at least 6 months apart
  • People with weakened immune systems (any age): Three doses given over a 12-month period
  • Safety: Generally very well tolerated. Common mild side effects include soreness, swelling or redness at the injection site, mild fever, or headache.
  • Effectiveness: Offers protection against nine HPV types, covering about 90% of cervical cancer cases, most HPV-related cancers, and genital warts.
  • Length of protection: Immunity is known to last at least 10 years, and likely much longer.
  • Convenient timing: The HPV vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccinations, including travel vaccines.

Book your vaccination appointment online or simply call us

Popular Vaccines

Find out everything about these popular vaccines we can provide at the Ealing Travel Clinic.

  • Chickenpox
  • Chikungunya Vaccine (Ixchiq)
  • Cholera
  • Dengue Fever Vaccine (Qdenga)
  • DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus & Polio)
  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • HPV Vaccine (Gardasil 9)
  • Japanese Encephalitis
  • Malaria
  • Meningitis B
  • Meningococcal Meningitis
  • MMR (Measles, Mumps & Rubella)
  • Private Covid Vaccine
  • Rabies
  • Shingles
  • Tick Borne Encephalitis
  • Typhoid
  • Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
  • Yellow Fever

Vaccine not listed? Don’t worry, we can provide any travel vaccine. Contact us for more information.

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