Correlation of HPV Vaccination Status and Sexual Behavior: A Study of Adolescent and Young Women in Greece

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate sexual behavior of adolescent and young women and the extent to which these were affected by HPV vaccination.Methods: Prospective observational study of 287 females 12 to 26 years attending an outpatient PAG Clinic of a University Hospital. Patients were asked to fill an anonymous questionnaire of 84 questions regarding demographic characteristics, HPV awareness and sexual behavior. Attitudes and alterations in sexual behavior in relation to HPV vaccination were compared between the vaccinated and the non-vaccinated group.Results: Of the population of 287 young women that was studied, 125 (43.6%) were vaccinated and 162 (56.4%) were not. During the study period vaccination increased from 31% to 58% of the cohort. Vaccinated cohort was of younger age, had coital sex in younger age (RR=0.75; 95% CI 0.58-0.98, p=0.040) and their partners were younger too. More of the vaccinated group had higher level of education (p=0.047), were not religiously oriented (p=0.022) and their mothers had higher education (RR=1.57; 95% CI 1.00-2.47, p=0.032) compared to the non-vaccinated. More of the non-vaccinated group had coital sex (RR=0.040; 95% CI 0.58-0.98, p=0.040). No differences were found between the vaccinated and non-vaccinated group on attitude to sex and relationships. More young women on the vaccinated group believed that vaccination should be done early (p=<0.001), that is a prerequisite for the initiation of coital sex (RR 1.63; 95% CI 1.07-1.82, p= <0.001) and that it created an opportunity to discuss Powered by Editorial Manager ® and ProduXion Manager® from Aries Systems Corporation sexual issues with their mothers (p=0.015). Conclusion:Young women that are vaccinated start sex earlier but do so after being vaccinated and show a more responsible attitude towards sex and prevention. The vaccinated group was guided by family, discussed sex with their mothers and asked for medical advice on relevant matters.