Iranian women’s psychological responses to positive HPV test result: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background Human papillomavirus testing as an established screenings test allow for the early detection and treatment of cervical cancer. Testing positive for HPV may have adverse consequences for women. This study aimed to explore the psychological impacts of testing positive for HPV on women in a developing country with a distinct cultural and religious background. Methods Qualitative face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 40 Iranian women who received a positive high-risk HPV result. Content analysis approach was used to data analysis through MAXQDA10. Results Three main categories were emerged: initial confrontation; STD-related psychological burden; and rebuilding health. Initial reactions to positive HPV results were shock, unrealistic fear, confusion, distress, and financial concerns. Stigma was manifested in form of self-blame, fear of HPV-disclosure, negative body image, being stigmatized by healthcare providers, and receiving health care anonymously. Refusal to use insurance services showed how evident and powerful the stigma was. Most women reported lifestyles and sexual behaviors modifications to help their immune system to clear HPV; indicating that the screening can work as a valuable opportunity to improve women's physical and sexual health. Regular follow-up, safe sex and a focus on spirituality enable women infected with HPV to take control of the situation. Worrying about other HPV-linked cancers (oropharynx and anal) and fears of partner infection indicated that women consider HPV to be more than just a cause of cervical cancer. Conclusions The findings implied to the HPV-positive women's need to support and factual information. Designing and implementing interventions that mitigate the psychological effect of positive HPV test results can highlight the potential benefits of screening for women's health.

The effectiveness of a model-based health education program on genital warts preventive behaviors: a quasi-experimental study

“…A body of research showed that GWs can change the appearance of the vulva, causing embarrassment and anxiety and the quality of sexual relationships [ 10 ]. As there is no HPV vaccination yet in Iran, and sexual relationships are only acceptable for married women in the culture, the sexually transmitted infection test is quite a challenge for most women [ 19 ]. It seems that preventing infection is the best strategy in this region.…”

Adaptation of patients diagnosed with human papillomavirus: a grounded theory study

“…A review of literature shows that the studies conducted on HPV are mostly focused on women, and such matters as quality of life [ 10 ], marital adaptation to the infection (using a quantitative approach) [ 11 ], vaccination [ 12 ], the psycho-sexual effects of being diagnosed with HPV [ 13 , 14 ], women’s experiences of facing their infection [ 15 ], women’s psychological responses to positive HPV test [ 16 ], the information management processes of women living with HPV [ 17 ], and reproductive concerns of HPV- positive women [ 18 ]. Research findings show that testing positive for human papillomavirus is accompanied by feelings of shame, stigma, self-deprecation, regret, anxiety and concern [ 16 , 18 , 19 ]. To the best knowledge of the authors, no work of research has addressed the process of adaptation in men and women with HPV.…”

Non-adherence to cervical cancer screening recommendations among women in Eswatini: a cross-sectional study

“…The reason for this finding is unknown; it may be difficult to draw any real conclusions from this finding given the small number participants who self-reported being “HPV-positive”. However, women may assume that being “HPV-positive” means they would definitely develop cervical cancer in the future [ 50 ] and thus not perceive the preventive benefit of adhering to screening recommendations.…”