Can i still request to get the hpv vaccine after age 26? i don't see how it would suddenly not work after age 26

Yes: Vaccines and medications have age ranges that are approved by the FDA (government). The age ranges are based on the research studies, which means the effects of getting Gardasil vaccine after age 26 are less known, unknown, less safe, etc... A person can always request a vaccine, and many doctors will say NO, but some will say YES. It would be "off label", so it would be self-pay (not insurance).

Depends: it's not that the vaccine doesn't work. It's just that it's not as effective at preventing cervical cancer if you have already been exposed to it.

Yes.. but....: To get drugs approved through the FDA it requires decades of research & proof of safety & effectiveness. The 9-26 age group was the target whose data was gathered & approved. It likely works for anyone with a normal immune system. Insurance companies usually only cover those in the FDA approved target. It is a pricy series, you can likely get it but expect to pay for it yourself.