The HPV vaccine (Guardasil) is given via intradermal injection. There are a series of three injections given over a six month period of time. The first vaccination is given, the second after two months and the third four months later. Side effects of the vaccine can include pain, swelling, itching, bruising, redness at the injection site, nausea, fever, headache, vomiting, and fainiting all of which are miniscule compared to the ravages of HPV. My daughter has had the series of vaccines and has not developed ANY of the side effects listed above.