HPV knowledge among HPV+ women.

OBJECTIVE: To assess knowledge and information seeking among women recently receiving an HPV+ diagnosis. METHODS: A 2-phase mixed methods design was used. In both phase I (qualitative) and phase II (quantitative), women with scheduled gynecological exams and Pap smears at clinic sites were approached to participate. RESULTS: Women expressed confusion about HPV, and most could not correctly articulate the meaning of their diagnosis. Women do engage in further information seeking, especially through the Internet. CONCLUSION: Identifying gaps in knowledge among HPV+ women who need clear messages to facilitate their comprehension of the diagnosis is an important public health activity.

Women's reactions to HPV diagnosis: insights from in-depth interviews.

Research links certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) to subsequent development of cervical cancer. Women (n=52) recently diagnosed with HPV following an abnormal Pap smear participated in in-depth interviews to explore their knowledge of HPV, their emotional responses to diagnosis, and the extent of their disclosure of their HPV diagnosis to others. Women had many knowledge deficits about HPV. Emotions related primarily to stigma, fear, self-blame, powerlessness, and anger. Most women disclosed their disease to significant others, usually to a sexual partner. Women's lack of accurate knowledge may contribute to the array of emotions they experience. Whereas education about HPV may reduce the potency of these emotions, information alone may be inadequate for achieving optimal patient care. Health care providers can be important in treating the emotional elements associated with diagnosis as well as the condition itself.