Why you should get Gardasil: the complete HPV vaccine guide from a female OB/GYN in Gangnam/Sinnonhyeon/Banpo

There are questions we often hear in OB-GYN consultations, such as "Do I really need to get Gardasil?" or "I've already had sexual experience, will it still be effective if I get it now?" Cervical cancer is known as a representative cancer that can be expected to be prevented by vaccination, and at its core is the Gardasil HPV vaccine. In this article, we will carefully explain what Gardasil is and who should get it and when, just as we would in a consultation.

What is Gardasil?

Gardasil is a vaccine designed to prevent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. It is known to help prevent not only cervical cancer but also various other HPV-related diseases.

Gardasil 9 targets the following types for prevention:

• Types 6 and 11: Associated with genital warts (condyloma)
• Types 16 and 18: Known as the main causes of cervical cancer
• Types 31, 33, 45, 52, 58: High-risk types reported to be associated with cervical cancer

Particularly, types 16 and 18 are highly reported to be associated with the occurrence of cervical cancer, making vaccination a meaningful way to prepare in advance.

Why is vaccination recommended?

Most cervical cancers are known to be associated with HPV infection. The reasons why Gardasil vaccination is recommended are as follows:

• It can help prevent cervical cancer.
• It can be expected to prevent genital warts (condyloma) related to types 6 and 11.
• It is reported to help reduce the progression of cervical dysplasia.
• Even if you have had sexual experience, the preventive effect against types you have not yet been infected with remains.
• For men, vaccination also helps prevent warts and HPV-related cancers, and protects partners.

We often receive questions asking if it's too late if one has already had sexual experience. However, because exposed types and unexposed types are different, the preventive value for uninfected types remains.

If you are curious about related tests, it may be helpful to look at HPV Testing and Cervical Cytology (Pap Smear) together.

What are the vaccination age and frequency?

The vaccination schedule varies depending on the starting age. Please refer to the table below.

Adults can also be vaccinated. At Blanc OB-GYN, the vaccination rate is higher among women in their 20s to 40s. You can check the schedule appropriate for your age and situation through our Vaccinations guide.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us via chat consultation.

What about side effects and safety?

Most reactions are mild and temporary. The following symptoms are reported:

• Pain or local swelling at the injection site
• Mild fever or fatigue

Rarely, dizziness may occur after vaccination, so it is recommended to sit and rest for 10 to 15 minutes after the injection. Gardasil is a widely administered vaccine worldwide, with consistent data on its safety being reported.

Consider vaccination if you fall into these categories

If any of the following apply to you, we recommend discussing whether to get vaccinated.

• Women in their 20s to 40s who have not yet received the HPV vaccine
• Those with recurrent cervicitis
• Those with a history of abnormal Pap test results
• Those concerned about recurrence after treatment for genital warts
• Those planning marriage or pregnancy
• Those who wish to prevent infection together with their partner

If you have concerns about recurrent vaginitis or HPV, it is also helpful to refer to our guide on HPV and Chronic Vaginitis. If HPV has already been confirmed, consultation regarding HPV Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) or STD/Infection Tests may be beneficial.

How Blanc OB-GYN supports you

Blanc OB-GYN provides cervical cancer screening, HPV typing, and personalized vaccination schedule management. Rather than a vaccine to hesitate and postpone, Gardasil is more akin to a preventive choice for your future health. Taking the first step means creating a plan that suits your age and health condition.

If you have questions about the vaccination schedule or related tests, please contact us via chat consultation. We will guide you according to your situation.

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Dr. Eun Jin Lee, Chief Director (Specialized in OB-GYN at Samsung Medical Center, Regular Member of the Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regular Member of the Korean Society of Menopause)

Dr. Eun Jin Lee's Profile

First published 2025-11-19 / Last reviewed 2026-06-17

This content is intended to provide general medical information and does not substitute for individual diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and vaccination plan.