Three vaccines are available to prevent the human papillomavirus (HPV) types that cause most cervical
cancers as well as some cancers of the anus, vulva (area around the opening of the vagina), vagina, and
oropharynx (back of throat including base of tongue and tonsils). Two of these vaccines also prevent HPV
types that cause most genital warts. HPV vaccines are given in 3 shots over 6 months.