Getting the HPV Vaccine

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The best way to decrease your risk of HPV-related genital warts and cancer is to get the HPV vaccine, Gardasil.

Vaccination against HPV is a three-shot process that can be completed in 6 months. It is approved and recommended by the CDC for people of all genders between the ages of 11 and 26.

How To Get the Vaccine:

Go online or call (512) 475-8301 to make an appointment at UHS to get your first shot.
In 1 to 2 months, get your second shot.
6 months after your first shot, get your third shot.

Isn’t HPV only a cancer risk for women?

In the past, HPV vaccine campaigns have emphasized the link between HPV and cervical cancer—even though HPV can cause genital warts and cancer in people of all genders. In fact, HPV infections account for almost all cases of cervical cancer and about two thirds of all cases of penile cancer, in addition to the vast majority of vulvar, vaginal, anal, and throat cancers.

I’m already sexually active. Why get vaccinated now?

You can contract HPV at any point in your life. And even if you’ve already had it, you can always get it again. Once you’re vaccinated, you’ll be protected from a long-term HPV infection that could cause genital warts and cancer.

I’m not planning to become sexually active anytime soon. Why get vaccinated at all?

HPV is so common that you can contract it even if you only have sex with one person.

The CDC currently recommends children begin receiving the HPV vaccine at ages 11 and 12—not because they’re sexually active, but because they can develop their immunity better at a younger age. Getting vaccinated before becoming sexually active is the best way to protect yourself against any potential future infections—even if you don’t plan to become sexually active for a while.

Does insurance cover the vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is fully covered by most insurance plans. For more information, check out UHS Charges and Insurance page.

If you’re uninsured or underinsured, check if you qualify for a free vaccine with the Merck Vaccine Assistance Program. Austin’s Big Shots immunization program also offers vaccines to uninsured and underinsured adults.