Human Papillomavirus HPV Vaccine
What is the HPV Vaccine?
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines help to prevent infections of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) which occur through skin-to-skin contact, like during sexual activity. Most infections do not have any signs or symptoms.
For more detailed information on the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and vaccination options, please visit Healthhub.
Book a consultation with our doctor to learn more and get vaccinated.
Who should take the HPV vaccine?
Under the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS), the HPV vaccination is recommended if you are:
- • A female aged 9 to 26 years old
- • Not yet exposed to the HPV strains covered by the vaccines
- • Sexually active
The vaccine can be given to the male, as they may still be susceptible to HPV infections.
If you are above 26 years old and wish to receive the HPV vaccination, our doctor will assess and advice on your suitability.
What are the side effects of the HPV vaccine?
Side effects of the HPV vaccine may include pain or swelling over the injection site, as well as fever, headache, bodyache or tiredness.
These usually go away on their own within 2-3 days. Paracetamol can help to relieve the fever or pain.
HPV Vaccine Consultation and Subsidies
Book a consultation appointment with our doctors to find out more about the HPV vaccine at our clinic.
CHAS Blue or Orange
Singaporean Females aged 18 - 26
CHAS Green
Singaporean Females aged 18 - 26
Frequently Asked Questions
HPV Vaccine
If you are above 26 years old, you should consult our doctor who will advise you on your suitability.
The vaccines are approved for clinical use in males 9 to 26 years old. In Singapore, Cervarix is licensed for use in females only, whilst Gardasil 9 is licensed for use in both males and females.
If you are above 26 years old, you should consult our doctor who will advise you on your suitability.
The vaccines are effective if given before your first sexual exposure, and have not been exposed to the HPV types covered by the vaccine.
The vaccine will still benefit if you have been sexually active, as you may not have been exposed to the HPV sub types covered by the vaccines.
The vaccination may not be suitable for you if you are sensitive to yeast or any of the vaccine components. If you are having a moderate or severe acute infectious illness, please wait till you have recovered before taking the vaccine.
HPV vaccinations do not guarantee 100% protection, as with any other vaccination.
It is not compulsory in Singapore, but it is highly recommended for females to protect themselves against cervical cancer. HPV vaccination is included in the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) for the target population of females aged 9 to 26.
Males are not included in the above schedules, although the vaccines are licensed for use and available to males who wish to be protected from HPV.
HPV vaccination is not a substitute for routine cervical cancer screening. Women are still encouraged to continue going for Pap Smear tests once every 3 years (25 – 29 years old), or HPV tests once every 5 years (age above 30).
Studies have shown sustained protection against vaccine-targeted HPV-related diseases in long-term follow-up studies for the HPV vaccines.
There is currently no recommendation for additional doses or booster shots.
HPV vaccination is not recommended for pregnant women. If you are found to be pregnant midway through your vaccination schedule, the remaining doses should be postponed until after delivery.
There is insufficient data to assess the effects of HPV vaccination on the breastfed infant. You may wish to discuss this with your doctor.
