Pre-pregnancy Vaccine for HPV

The Ministry of Health recommends that girls and women ages 9–26 get the HPV vaccine as part of the immunization schedule. In special cases, and after consulting with a healthcare provider, women ages 27–45 may also be eligible for the vaccine.

Why it’s important to get the HPV vaccine before pregnancy

The HPV vaccine helps prevent most cases of cervical cancer, as well as many cases of vulvar, vaginal, anal, oral, and throat cancers. It also protects against genital warts. In very rare cases, the HPV virus can be transmitted to the fetus and cause breathing difficulties.

Vaccine composition

The vaccine contains proteins from 9 different strains of HPV.

When to get vaccinated and how many shots you need

• The HPV vaccine is given in 3 shots for women.
• The vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy because it has not been studied in pregnant women.

Where to get vaccinated

The vaccine is available at HMOs or health bureaus and requires payment.