Should men get Gardasil too? Why men need the HPV vaccine (Gangnam/Sinnonhyeon OB/GYN)

Are You Wondering if Men Should Also Get Gardasil?

In the clinic, we still encounter many men who ask, "Isn't Gardasil a vaccine for preventing cervical cancer in women?" To put it simply, HPV is a virus that can infect both men and women and can directly cause diseases in men, making male vaccination well worth considering.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a common virus that anyone, male or female, can be infected with if they have had sexual intercourse. It is particularly important to note that men often have no noticeable symptoms even when infected, meaning they can unknowingly transmit it to their partners.

What Does HPV Mean for Men?

When men are infected with HPV, most experience no noticeable symptoms. Therefore, it is difficult to know if one is infected without testing or medical consultation, and it can be transmitted to partners in an asymptomatic state.

It is helpful to understand HPV not just as a women's issue, but as a virus that couples should manage together.

In women, HPV is reported to be associated with cervical cancer, vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, cervical cell abnormalities, and recurrent vaginitis. Regular cervical cytology (Pap test) and HPV testing are recommended to monitor for changes.

Reasons to Consider Male Gardasil Vaccination

Here's a summary of what we often explain when guiding men on HPV vaccination:

• Men are also reported to develop HPV-related anal cancer, penile cancer, and oropharyngeal cancer. Oropharyngeal cancer, in particular, is reported to be on the rise in men, making vaccination a viable option.
• Among male HPV-related diseases, the most common is condyloma (genital warts), which is contagious and tends to recur frequently after treatment. Gardasil 9 is known to help prevent HPV types 6 and 11, which are common causes of condyloma.
• Men can transmit HPV to partners even without symptoms, so if you are planning a pregnancy or are in a long-term relationship, vaccination may be considered as a method of partner health management.

If condyloma has already developed, it is common to consult about vaccination for the purpose of preventing new infections, in addition to treatments like condyloma drug treatment TCA.

Does Vaccination Lose Its Meaning with Age?

According to international guidelines, the ideal period for vaccination is between 9 and 26 years of age, before sexual activity. However, adult men aged 27 to 45 can also consider vaccination. This is because even if already exposed to some HPV types, vaccination can still be meaningful for preventing other high-risk types not yet encountered.

Vaccination is possible even with a history of condyloma. Gardasil is not a treatment but a preventive vaccine that blocks new HPV infections, so consultation is provided for recurrence management, situations involving new partners, and partner protection purposes.

What is the Gardasil 9 Vaccination Schedule for Men?

The number of doses and intervals vary by age. The schedule may be adjusted according to individual conditions, so confirmation during consultation is necessary.

HPV is known to be commonly transmitted between couples, and there are reports suggesting that increased male vaccination can help reduce the risk of infection for both men and women.

HPV Vaccination Consultation at Blanc OB/GYN

At Blanc OB/GYN, we assist with male condyloma and HPV-related consultations, simultaneous partner prevention counseling, vaccination plans tailored to age and condition, and guidance considering previous infection history, ensuring a manageable schedule. If you are concerned about both HPV and chronic vaginitis, you can receive a comprehensive assessment through HPV & Chronic Vaginitis consultation. If you need counseling regarding contraception or pregnancy planning, you can also receive contraception counseling.

HPV prevention is not just a women's issue; male prevention can be a way to jointly protect a partner's health. If you are considering vaccination, please feel free to inquire.

---

Dr. Eun-Jin Lee, Chief Director (Samsung Medical Center OB/GYN Specialty, Regular Member of Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regular Member of Korean Society of Menopause) Dr. Eun-Jin Lee's Profile First Published 2025-11-20 / Last Reviewed 2026-06-17 Effectiveness and vaccination schedules may vary individually. Please confirm the accurate diagnosis and vaccination plan through consultation with an OB/GYN specialist.