Vaccination against HPV

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can cause cervical cancer and genital warts. Infection with a certain type of HPV can lead to cervical cancer. Less commonly, HPV can also lead to cancers that affect the vulva, groin, vagina and anus. Both men and women can become infected with HPV. HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual intercourse, oral sex, anal sex, or other genital contact.

You can get vaccinated against HPV. Vaccination does not completely eliminate the risk of developing cervical cancer; however, it reduces the risk considerably.

There are over a hundred types of HPV, about 15 of which cause cervical cancer. HPV types 6 and 11 rarely give rise to cervical cancers, but are responsible for about 90% of the cases of genital warts. HPV types 16 and 18 are high-risk, causing the majority (approximately 70%) of cervical cancers. HPV types 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58 are also high risk, causing 19% of cervical cancers.

For vaccination, we use the HPV vaccine Gardasil 9, which provides protection against nine types of HPV (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58). Vaccination is available for a fee. The price of one dose of Gardasil 9 is 148 euros.

For adults aged 18 and over, the HPV vaccine may be given in either two or three doses. A gynaecologist or midwife will advise which schedule is recommended. In a three-dose schedule, the vaccine is given over a 6-month period. In a two-dose schedule, the second dose is given 6 months after the first.

From 1 February 2024, HPV vaccination is available free of charge for all young people aged 12–18 (incl.). Vaccination consists of one injection. The exception is for children with immunocompromised systems, who will require three doses.

In most cases, young people aged 12–18 years receive the HPV vaccine at school, administered by school nurses. However, you can also get vaccinated through your family doctor or by visiting a midwife at East Tallinn Central Hospital.

To get vaccinated, book an appointment with a midwife at the front desk, through the national e-booking system or by calling (+372) 666 1900.

 Written parental consent is required to vaccinate a person under the age of 18. As such, we ask minors to come to their appointment with a parent.

You can book an appointment:

• On the Health Portal www.terviseportaal.ee (select the HPV vaccination service).
• By calling +372 666 1900Mon to Fri 07:30-18:00
• On site at the front desk.

Starting from August 2025, adults aged 19 and over can get the HPV vaccine at their own expense at pharmacies operating under the Südameapteek, Benu and Apotheka brands. Vaccination is not available in pharmacies for girls and boys aged 12–18.

Vaccination, alongside regular check-ups by a gynaecologist, provides the best protection against cervical cancer.