HPV vaccine, 4-valent vs 9-valent: what's the difference and which to choose
How the 4-valent and 9-valent HPV vaccines compare in cervical cancer protection, how many doses and how far apart, and the price at the clinic.
The HPV vaccine is one of the few vaccines that directly prevents cancer, but a full course is not cheap, so almost everyone's first question is 'what's the difference between 4 and 9 types, and is the extra worth it?' Below are the types each covers, the number of doses by age and the clinic's prices, so you can decide before you come.
Key takeaways
- The 4-valent covers HPV 6, 11, 16 and 18. The 9-valent adds 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58, cancer-causing types that are common in Asian populations.
- Types 16 and 18 cause about 70% of cervical cancers; the 9-valent extends coverage to about 90%.
- Ages 9–14: 2 doses 6–12 months apart. Age 15 and over: 3 doses at 0, 2 and 6 months. Licensed up to age 45.
- At Mongkhondee Clinic the 4-valent is 3,500 baht/dose (3 doses 9,500 baht) and the 9-valent 5,330 baht/dose (3 doses 15,990 baht · medical service fee 300 baht per dose).
What HPV is and why prevent it
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a family of more than 100 types, spread by close skin and mucosal contact. Most people have been infected without knowing and clear the virus on their own. But some high-risk types that persist for years cause cell changes that lead to cervical cancer and other cancers, including cancers of the mouth and throat and of the anus.
Cervical cancer is among the commonest cancers in Thai women and one of the few whose cause is known well enough to prevent with a vaccine. The WHO aims to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem, with HPV vaccination as one of three pillars alongside screening and treatment.
4-valent vs 9-valent
| HPV 4-valent | HPV 9-valent | |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer-causing types | 16, 18 | 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58 |
| Wart-causing types | 6, 11 | 6, 11 |
| Share of cervical cancer causes covered | About 70% | About 90% |
| Licensed ages | 9–45 | 9–45 |
| Doses | 2 (ages 9–14) or 3 (15 and over) | Same |
| Price per dose at the clinic | 3,500 baht/dose | 5,330 baht/dose |
| 3-dose package | 3 doses 9,500 baht | 3 doses 15,990 baht · medical service fee 300 baht per dose |
Types 52 and 58, added in the 9-valent, matter particularly in Thailand: studies in East and Southeast Asia find these two types in cervical cancer patients more often than in Western populations, so doctors in Thailand usually recommend the 9-valent when there is a choice.
How many doses and how far apart
- Ages 9–14: 2 doses, the second 6–12 months after the first. If the second is given less than 5 months after the first, a third dose is needed
- Ages 15–45: 3 doses at months 0, 2 and 6 (the same schedule for 4-valent and 9-valent)
- People with weakened immunity: 3 doses at any age
- If you miss an appointment, don't start over; just complete the remaining doses
Good to know: Since 2022 the WHO has endorsed a single-dose schedule as giving good protection at ages 9–20, and many national programmes have adopted it. Thailand still mainly uses the 2-dose schedule for children; the doctor advises according to the guidance in force on the day.
Already had the full 4-valent course: should I add the 9-valent?
It can be done safely, but the added benefit is protection against the extra 5 types only, and whether that's worthwhile depends on your age and risk. Most guidance doesn't recommend it routinely but doesn't prohibit it either. Talk to the doctor first. Either way, keep up cervical screening for your age.
Side effects and preparation
The common effects are soreness, swelling or redness at the injection site, headache or a low fever for 1–2 days. Teenagers sometimes faint after the shot from nerves rather than the vaccine itself, so the clinic asks you to sit for 15–30 minutes before leaving. It should not be given during pregnancy; if you find you are pregnant mid-course, delay the remaining doses until after the birth.
No HPV test is needed before vaccination and there's no need to fast. Bring your vaccination book or previous dose record if you have one. See details and book at HPV 9-valent vaccine or HPV 4-valent vaccine. Men, read can men have the HPV vaccine?, and if you're over 26, see is it too late at 30–45?
Frequently asked questions
At Mongkhondee Clinic the 4-valent is 3,500 baht/dose (3 doses 9,500 baht) and the 9-valent 5,330 baht/dose (3 doses 15,990 baht · medical service fee 300 baht per dose), valid until 31 December 2026.
Related services
Related vaccines
Related articles
Sources
- Human papillomavirus and cancer World Health Organization
- HPV Vaccination Recommendations U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Human papillomavirus vaccines: WHO position paper (2022 update) World Health Organization
This content is general information and does not replace an examination, diagnosis or personal advice from a doctor. Published 20 September 2026
Everyone's health is different
If you have a health condition, take regular medication, are pregnant or have unusual symptoms, let a doctor assess you first. Message us on LINE.
