Human papillomavirus vaccine: Let’s debunk some of the myths
Let’s talk about the HPV vaccine, because there’s a lot of misinformation floating around out there. Whether you’re a parent trying to make the best decision for your child, or an adult wondering if it’s still worth getting the jab, chances are you’ve heard a few myths about the human papillomavirus vaccine.
Here’s the truth: The HPV vaccine is safe, effective, and prevents certain types of cancer. Period. But let’s go ahead and unpack the most common myths so you can feel 100% confident in your decision.
Myth #1: The HPV vaccine isn’t safe
Wrong.
The HPV vaccine has been thoroughly tested in clinical trials, reviewed by health experts globally, and monitored for over 15 years. Like any vaccine or medication, there can be mild side effects (think soreness at the injection site or a mild fever), but serious side effects are extremely rare. The risks of not getting vaccinated, like developing cervical, throat, or anal cancer later in life, are far greater.
Bottom line: It’s been given to hundreds of millions of people worldwide with an excellent safety record. Trust the science, not a Facebook post.
Myth #2: The vaccine can cause infertility
This one just keeps making the rounds, and it's completely false. There is zero scientific evidence linking the HPV vaccine to infertility.
What’s ironic is that HPV infections (if left untreated) can lead to cervical cancer, which might require surgery or treatment that can affect fertility. So, if anything, getting vaccinated actually helps protect fertility in the long run by reducing the risk of those serious complications.
Myth #3: Only girls need the HPV vaccine
Nope. HPV doesn’t discriminate.
While cervical cancer is the most well-known result of HPV, the virus also causes penile, anal, and throat cancers, which affect people of all genders. Plus, HPV is super common; nearly 8 out of 10 people will get it at some point, usually without even knowing.
That’s why the HPV vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys, ideally between the ages of 9 and 12, before any potential exposure to the virus. But if you're older, don't panic, it's still worth asking your doctor if you're eligible.
In the UK, boys were added to the national HPV vaccination program in 2019.
Myth #5: You don’t need the vaccine if you're already sexually active
Not true. Even if you’ve had sex, the vaccine can still offer valuable protection. There are over 100 types of HPV, and the vaccine protects against the ones most likely to cause cancer and genital warts, especially HPV types 16 and 18, which cause around 70% of cervical cancers.
So even if you’ve been exposed to one type, you likely haven’t encountered them all. The vaccine can still reduce your risk significantly.
In fact, people up to age 26 are generally eligible to get vaccinated. In some cases, adults aged 27–45 may also benefit, especially if they’re at higher risk (e.g., new or multiple sexual partners). It's worth having a chat with your healthcare provider.
Myth #6: Kids are too young to get a vaccine for this
HPV is a virus, and most people don’t even know when they’ve had it. It's not about being sexually active now. It’s about protection before any risk begins.
Vaccinating kids around ages 9–12 gives their immune system the best chance to develop strong protection before any exposure occurs. That’s how all vaccines work, you don’t wait until there’s a threat to act.
And just because the vaccine protects against a virus that’s transmitted through sexual contact doesn't mean you're making any assumptions about your child. You’re simply protecting them from cancer in the future. That’s smart parenting.
Myth #7: HPV isn't that big of a deal
Actually, it really is.
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world. In North America and the UK, thousands of people are diagnosed every year with cancers caused by HPV.
Here’s a quick look:
In the US, about 14 million new HPV infections occur each year. Around 13,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually.
In Canada, approximately 1,300 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year.
In the UK, over 3,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually.
And that’s just cervical cancer. When you factor in oral, anal, and penile cancers, the numbers get even bigger. So yes, HPV is a big deal, and prevention matters.
Myth #8: The vaccine is too expensive
If you're in the UK, the HPV vaccine is available for free through the NHS for children aged 12–13. In Canada, provinces and territories offer it for free as part of routine school vaccination programs. In the US, it’s often covered by insurance, and uninsured individuals may be eligible through programs like Vaccines for Children (VFC).
Even if you’re paying out of pocket as an adult, the cost of the vaccine is far less than the cost of treating cancer—not to mention the physical and emotional toll.
So, what’s the takeaway?
The HPV vaccine is one of the most effective tools we have to prevent cancer. It’s safe, it works, and it’s backed by years of research and real-world results.
Don’t let internet rumors or outdated myths steer you away from making a smart health decision, for yourself or your child.
If you’re still unsure, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or public health nurse. Ask questions. Get the facts. And when you're ready, get vaccinated. Your future self will thank you.