HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine

HPV is the main cause of genital warts as well as sometimes leading to cervical cancer, therefore the vaccine can help protect against both these conditions.

The reason few adults get the vaccine is because they are likely to have already been exposed to HPV through sex. Gardasil 9 can only protect and not treat HPV. 

However there is no upper age limit, but getting the vaccine from age 11 is recommended. You can request vaccination through the Online Doctor if you are aged 18 and over. LloydsPharmacy stores can vaccinate those aged 12-45 only. 

It can be a challenge for some people outside of the UK to get the HPV vaccination, for that reason we have seen a huge influx of students, requesting the vaccine through our online service. The vast majority of these international students are Chinese, as the vaccine is relatively difficult to access in China. As the vaccine is administered in 3 doses over 6 months, the academic year gives plenty of time to fit in appointments for each dose. 

Minor side effects can occur, similar to most other vaccinations. These side effects include redness, swelling or pain at the site of the injection, which usually settles within a couple of days. Others include bruising, fever, headaches, nausea and dizziness. 

You can request your vaccine online through LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor. Complete a short medical questionnaire and we will then check your suitability for the vaccine and prescribe it, if it is appropriate. You can then arrange to be vaccinated at a time to suit you at any LloydsPharmacy store listed. 

Please note that you may experience a delay in booking your vaccine if we are experiencing a high volume of vaccine requests. We advise calling your nominated store to see when it is likely to be less busy. 

You can also request the vaccination from selected LloydsPharmacy stores and book your appointment online. To find out more about the LloydsPharmacy vaccination service, please visit their information pages or ask in-store.