HPV Vaccine

Protect yourself and your family from HPV-related cancers and genital warts with the HPV vaccine., Dr. Akhileshwar Singh — Senior Consultant Infertility Specialist MS, MBBS — provides guidance on vaccination, screening, and women’s health. If you’re searching for the best gynaecologist or infertility specialist in Pune for HPV vaccination advice, you’re in the right pla

The HPV vaccine is a powerful prevention tool against cervical, anal, vulvar, vaginal, penile, and certain throat cancers. It is most effective before exposure to HPV but remains beneficial for many adults. Vaccination does not replace screening; both work together to reduce cancer risk.

Dr. Akhileshwar Singh, Senior Consultant Infertility, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Infertility Specialist, Obstetrics & Gynecology, MS, MBBS — Pune, Maharashtra

What is HPV and why vaccination matters

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Most infections clear naturally, but some high-risk types can cause cervical and other cancers over years. The HPV vaccine trains the immune system to block infection from the most harmful types, dramatically reducing cervical pre-cancers and genital warts.

Available vaccines include bivalent (targets HPV 16, 18), quadrivalent (6, 11, 16, 18), and nonavalent (adds five more high-risk types).

Quick facts (AGO)

Best time: ages 9–14 (two doses).
Catch-up: up to age 26; 27–45 on shared decision-making.
Does not treat existing HPV; it prevents future infections.
Screening remains essential after vaccination.

Short answer: Most people benefit from getting vaccinated as early as possible

How it spreads?
Intimate skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
Less commonly via shared sexual devices without barrier protection.
Most infections are silent and temporary; reinfection can occur with new exposure.

Possible symptoms or signs

Genital warts: soft, flesh-colored bumps on vulva, vagina, cervix, penis, scrotum, or anus.
Abnormal Pap/HPV test results: may indicate cervical cell changes.
Oropharyngeal symptoms (rare): persistent sore throat or hoarseness; evaluation needed.
Often no symptoms until advanced disease — hence prevention and screening are vital.

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

Ages 9–14: 2 doses at 0 and 6–12 months (minimum 5 months apart).
Ages 15–26: 3 doses at 0, 1–2, and 6 months.
Immunocompromised (any age 9–26): 3-dose schedule.
Ages 27–45: consider vaccination after discussion of benefits; individual risk matters.
Recommended for all genders to reduce transmission and protect against multiple cancers.

AGO: Still eligible after sexual debut? Yes — the vaccine can protect against types you have not yet encountered

FAQs on HPV Vaccine (Pune, Maharashtra)

What ages should get the HPV vaccine?

Ideally ages 9–14 (two doses). Ages 15–26 need three doses. Adults 27–45 may benefit after a risk–benefit discussion with your doctor.

Consult Dr. Akhileshwar Singh in Pune, Maharashtra

For personalized HPV vaccination advice, dosing schedules, and cervical screening, book a consultation with Dr. Akhileshwar Singh at Dr Akhileshwar Singh, Pune, Maharashtra.

In-person and teleconsult options available.
Evidence-based recommendations for adolescents, adults, and special populations.

Book an appointment.

HPV vaccine