HPV vaccine counselling — parent concerns

PLAB 2 & PRES 3 · paediatrics · easy · 8 minutes

Candidate brief

You are a doctor in a GP practice. Mrs Nadia Ahmed has requested advice after her 13-year-old daughter, Leila, was invited to receive the HPV vaccine through the school vaccination programme. Explore her concerns, explain the benefits and risks of vaccination and help her make an informed decision. No physical examination is required.

What examiners look for

HPV is very common. It usually clears naturally, but persistent infection with some types can cause several cancers and genital warts. Vaccination is offered before likely exposure because prevention works better than trying to manage an established infection. The HPV vaccine is non-live and cannot cause HPV infection. There is no evidence that it harms fertility or encourages sexual activity. UK mode: HPV vaccine is routinely offered to boys and girls aged 12 to 13, normally in Year 8. Immunocompetent people under 25 generally need one dose. Ireland mode: HPV vaccine is offered in first year of secondary school. Immunocompetent people aged 9 to 24 generally require one dose. Immunocompromised people may require 3 doses and should follow specialist or national guidance. Common effects include injection-site pain, redness or swelling, headache, fever, nausea, dizziness and tiredness. Fainting can occur. Severe allergic reactions are very rare. The vaccine does not protect against every HPV type and does not treat an existing infection. People with a cervix should still attend cervical screening when eligible. Listen respectfully, correct misinformation without ridicule and support an informed decision.

Guideline references

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