One of the Few Vaccines
That Directly Prevents Cancer
HPV causes nearly all cervical cancer, plus other cancers in both sexes. Given before exposure — ideally ages 9–14 — it's strongly, directly protective.
A Common Virus, a Serious Consequence
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common, sexually transmitted virus. Most infections clear on their own, but persistent infection with certain high-risk types causes virtually all cervical cancer, along with a share of throat, anal, and penile cancers, plus genital warts.
Because it spreads through intimate contact, the vaccine works best when given well before any exposure — which is exactly why it's recommended so early, between ages 9 and 14, for both girls and boys.
This isn't a vaccine that only protects the person who receives it — vaccinating boys as well as girls reduces overall transmission across a population.
Causes nearly all cervical cancer
One of the few vaccines with direct, proven cancer prevention
Recommended for boys AND girls
HPV-related cancers affect both sexes; boys also reduce transmission
Best given before exposure
Ideally ages 9–14, well before any sexual activity begins
2 doses if started early
3 doses for catch-up vaccination in older teens/adults
Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine
Girls & boys, ages 9–14
The ideal window — before any exposure, and just 2 doses needed at this age.
Teens who missed the early window
Catch-up vaccination is still valuable, generally recommended into the mid-20s.
Young adults
3-dose catch-up series remains worthwhile even after the ideal age window.
Parents deciding for pre-teens
A conversation worth having early — protection works best well ahead of any exposure.
Anyone with questions about coverage
Gardasil 9 covers the broadest range of HPV types — ask your pediatrician which fits.
“I understand why this conversation feels different from other childhood vaccines for some parents — but medically, it's straightforward: this is direct cancer prevention, and it works best given early, well before it's ever needed. I'd encourage every family not to let hesitation cost them the ideal window.”
— Dr. Gagan M.S. Malhotra, Founder & Senior Paediatrician
IAP EB Member · IAP Vaccinology Certified · 23 years in practice
Common Questions
Is the HPV vaccine only for girls?
No — it's recommended for both girls and boys. HPV causes virtually all cervical cancer, plus other cancers (throat, anal, penile) and genital warts that affect both sexes. Vaccinating boys also reduces transmission overall.
At what age should the HPV vaccine be given?
Ideally between 9 and 14 years, before any exposure — at this age it's typically a 2-dose series. Catch-up vaccination for older teens and adults uses a 3-dose schedule; your pediatrician can advise on timing.
Does the HPV vaccine really prevent cancer?
Yes — HPV causes nearly all cervical cancer cases, and the vaccine has strong, well-established evidence of preventing the infections that lead to it. It's one of the few vaccines directly proven to prevent cancer.
What's the difference between Cervavac, Gardasil 4, and Gardasil 9?
All protect against the HPV types responsible for most cervical cancer. Gardasil 9 covers the broadest range of HPV types (9 total), Gardasil 4 covers 4, and Cervavac (India's own quadrivalent vaccine) covers 4 as well. Your pediatrician can help you choose based on age and coverage needs.
Is it too late if my teenager already missed the ideal age window?
No — catch-up vaccination is still valuable, generally recommended up to the mid-20s and sometimes beyond. It's worth asking rather than assuming it's too late.
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Cervavac, Gardasil 4, or Gardasil 9. Certified nurse. Cold-chain verified. Paediatrician consultation included. Delhi NCR.