Gardasil 9, the only HPV vaccine currently available in the United States, is a three-dose series for most adults. These three doses are given over 6 months.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is recommended for most adults up to age 45 who were not vaccinated as adolescents.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the adult HPV vaccination schedule is as follows:

  • The second dose is given 1 to 2 months after the first dose.
  • The third dose is given 6 months after the first dose.

While the vaccine is most effective when administered before exposure to HPV (typically during adolescence), it can still offer protection for adults against certain HPV strains that lead to genital warts and cancers.

Adolescent and adult HPV vaccinations differ in the number of doses and the timing of administration.

Most adolescents receive two doses of the HPV vaccine, spread 6 months to a year apart, while most adults need three doses administered over a period of 6 months.

Your HPV vaccine schedule depends on the age you are when you get the first dose of the vaccine:

  • Under the age of 15: If you get your first dose before you turn 15, you’ll typically receive two doses of the HPV vaccine, spaced 6 to 12 months apart.
  • Ages 15 to 45: People who get their first HPV vaccination between the ages of 15 and 45 need three doses of the HPV vaccine. Typically, the second dose is given 1 to 2 months after the first, and the third dose is administered 6 months after the first.

Immunocompromised children, including children with HIV, might also need three doses of the vaccine given over a period of 6 months.

While adult vaccination may not offer as much protection as getting vaccinated before exposure, it can still help prevent future infections from high risk HPV strains.

There are several benefits to getting the HPV vaccine as an adult, especially for people who weren’t vaccinated during adolescence:

  • Protection against HPV-related cancers: HPV is responsible for several types of cancer, including anal, cervical, and throat cancers.
  • Reduced risk of genital warts: The HPV vaccine protects against strains that cause genital warts, offering a significant benefit for sexually active adults who may be exposed to these strains.
  • Protection against other strains of HPV: Even if someone has been exposed to one strain of HPV, vaccination can still provide protection against other strains.
  • Prevention for future partners: Vaccination can help prevent the transmission of other strains to sexual partners, protecting their health and reducing the spread of the virus.
  • Peace of mind: Many adults who missed out on the vaccine as adolescents choose to get vaccinated for the added protection and reassurance it provides.

Although the vaccine is most effective before exposure to the virus, it still offers significant benefits to adults, especially in protecting against strains they have yet to be exposed to.

But not every adult is a good candidate for the HPV vaccine.

According to the CDC, HPV vaccination is not recommended for everyone older than age 26 because the vaccine might provide less benefit to them. This is partly because more people in this age range have likely already been exposed to HPV.

Consider discussing the pros and cons of the HPV vaccine with a healthcare professional to figure out whether it’s a good fit for you.

If you weren’t vaccinated for HPV during adolescence, it’s not too late. Most adults up to age 45 can still benefit from the protection that the HPV vaccine offers.

The vaccination schedule for adults typically involves three doses over 6 months, and it provides crucial protection against HPV-related cancers and genital warts.

For personalized advice, talk with a healthcare professional to determine if getting the HPV vaccine is right for you.

Sian Ferguson is a freelance health and cannabis writer based in Cape Town, South Africa. She’s passionate about empowering readers to take care of their mental and physical health through science-based, empathetically delivered information.