Gardasil 9 is a vaccine that helps protect against nine types ofhumanpapillomavirus(HPV).

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) out there.

In most cases, HPV goes away on its own.

A healthcare provider injecting a vaccine into a person’s arm.

Pornpak Khunatorn / Getty Images

When HPV doesn’t go away, it can lead togenital wartsandcertain cancers.

Children without insurance can get the vaccine free through the Vaccine for Children (VFC) program.

Research shows that HPV is often acquired soon after the first sexual encounter.

Ideally, you should get the vaccine before any exposure to HPV through sexual contact.

How Much Does the HPV Vaccine Cost?

Gardasil 9 is also covered under the VCF program.

Summary

HPV is a sexually transmitted virus with multiple types or strains.

Often, HPV goes away on it’s own within a couple of years without ever causing symptoms.

These strains can be treated, but not cured.

There is a vaccine (immunization) called Gardasil 9 that can help prevent HPV.

The list price for Gardasil 9 is a little over $250 for a two or three-dose schedule.

However, most health insurance providers cover Gardasil 9, but that varies from company to company.

Frequently Asked Questions

The HPV vaccine is free for most insured people under age 26.

Those over 18 may be eligible throughMedicaid.

The HPV vaccine is free to most people with insurance until age 26.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Current CDC price list.

Gardasil 9 Human Papillomavirus 9-Valent Vaccine, Recombinant.Information about Gardasil 9.

National Foundation for Infection Diseases.HPV (human papillomavirus).

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Human papillomavirus vaccination information for clinicians.

Planned Parenthood.Should I get the HPV vaccine?