How should I counsel patients about the risks and benefits of the HPV vaccine?

Counsel patients on the benefits of the HPV vaccine by explaining that it protects against infection with HPV types that cause cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers such as vaginal, vulval, and anal cancers, as well as anogenital warts. The vaccine is most effective when given before the individual becomes sexually active.

Advise that vaccination is part of the national childhood immunisation programme, typically offered to girls aged 12–13 years, and also recommended for eligible groups such as gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men.

Explain that while the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of HPV infection and related diseases, it does not eliminate the need for cervical screening in women aged 25–64 years, as screening detects precancerous changes early.

Discuss the importance of continuing to use barrier methods such as condoms to reduce the risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections, noting that condoms reduce but do not fully eliminate HPV transmission risk.

Inform patients about the safety profile of the vaccine, highlighting that serious adverse effects are rare, and that healthcare professionals administering the vaccine are trained to manage contraindications and provide personalised advice.

Encourage patients to complete the full vaccination course for optimal protection.