HPV Vaccination for Men: Preventing Penile Cancer and Genital Warts

Last updated: August 15, 2026

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HPV — human papillomavirus — is the commonest sexually transmitted viral infection there is. Most people associate the vaccine with cervical cancer and therefore with girls, and that association is exactly why a lot of men go unvaccinated when they would benefit from it.

What HPV does in men

In men, persistent infection with high-risk subtypes causes penile cancer, anal cancer and oropharyngeal (throat) cancer. Low-risk subtypes cause genital warts — not dangerous, but stubborn to clear and a real source of distress.

Some perspective is warranted, though, because the numbers frighten people unnecessarily. The US CDC reports around 14 million new infections a year, and most sexually active people will encounter at least one subtype in their lifetime. Around 90% of infections clear on their own within two years without any treatment at all. Only the small proportion that persists carries cancer risk — and types 16 and 18 account for most of it.

Which vaccine, in practice

Three HPV vaccines have been approved over the years, but the practical choice today is simpler than that list suggests.

• Gardasil 9 — covers 9 subtypes, protecting against about 90% of HPV-related cancers and most genital warts. Approved for males and females, and this is the one to have. If you want the detail, see how Gardasil 9 compares with the older 4-valent vaccine.
• Gardasil (4-valent) — the earlier version, covering 4 subtypes. Largely superseded and no longer distributed in many countries.
• Cervarix — covers 2 subtypes and is licensed for females only, so it is not an option for men in any case.

Timing, doses, and whether it is too late

Vaccination works best before any sexual activity begins, which is why it is offered in early adolescence. The CDC schedule is 2 doses if the course starts before age 15, and 3 doses from 15 onwards.

The question I am asked most often is whether it is worth having as an adult who is already sexually active. The honest answer: less benefit than being vaccinated at twelve, but not none. With over 100 subtypes, having encountered one does not mean you have encountered the nine the vaccine covers, and it still reduces genital wart recurrence. Past the mid-twenties it becomes an individual decision rather than a blanket recommendation — worth discussing rather than assuming the window has closed.

On durability, the vaccine has been in use since 2006 and the protection has proved long-lasting, with no booster currently recommended.

One last point, because it gets left out of the male conversation entirely: vaccinating men also protects their partners. Transmission runs both ways, and a man who is vaccinated is not passing on the subtypes that cause cervical cancer.

If you are considering HPV vaccination for yourself or a family member, or want to discuss genital warts or HPV-related concerns, Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone offers specialist consultations at Bangkok Hospital Headquarters. Book a Consultation. Appointments at Samitivej Sriracha Hospital can be arranged by calling the Urology department on 088-022-1445.

Frequently Asked Questions about HPV Vaccination

Disclaimer: This content is written and reviewed by Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone, a board-certified urologist at Bangkok Hospital Headquarters. It is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. No medical advice, diagnosis or prescription is provided through personal messaging channels. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any medical treatment.