Challenges and Needs of HPV-Positive Women

Abstract

HPV is the most prevalent sexually transmitted diseases causing a variety of clinical manifestations ranging from warts to cancer. This study aimed to examine the challenges and needs of HPV-positive women. In this qualitative study, we analyzed data extracted from semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 31 Iranian HPV-positive women using a conventional content analysis approach using MAXQDA.10 software. Data were collected from her at the women’s clinic from 21 January 2022 to her 19 February 2022. The sampling process was purposeful, and the accuracy of this study was ensured according to her 4 criteria suggested by Guba and Lincoln. Four themes were identified from the interviewing of HPV-positive women that include: Needing support and counseling to adapt to the disease, needing counseling and training to improve the disease, needing a qualified health care provider, needing proper health care services. HPV-positive women had many adverse such as reproductive health challenges (Menstruation cycle, delivery type, fertility, pregnancy, and breastfeeding), low control, confusion, cancer-related concerns, relationship problems, sexual concerns, uncertainty, stigma, low trust, social impact, non-disclosure of results, idiosyncratic prevention, indirect clinical interaction, changes in sexual behavior. HPV-positive women face many challenges and seek information to address them. Therefore, at the primary level, providers need to be aware of the needs of these patients needs in order to make the necessary consultations.

Human Papillomavirus In Pregnancy

“…This type of transmission is characterized by HPV-induced lesions, which encompass anogenital and laryngeal areas. Several authors state that intrauterine transmission of HPV has been suspected, leading to laryngeal or oral papillomatosis, and the presence of vulvovaginal secretions in HPV-positive mothers is related to vertical transmission of the virus at the time of delivery (8,9,10). It is crucial to note that the likelihood of infection transmitted from mother to child depends largely on the viral genotypes present in the mother.…”

“…Gupta, et al (18), conducted a systematic review of the literature that demonstrated a wide variation in the prevalence of HPV in pregnant women, which can be attributed to changes in the hormonal environment and decreased immunity. In addition, in several populations, several types of HPV have been found to be associated with premature rupture of membranes, preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and placental abnormalities (9). During pregnancy, the change in the hormonal environment and the immune response may favor the presence and persistence of HPV infection (8,9).…”

“…There are other expressions of HPV that are not related to the genital region and that are not acquired through sexual contact, these are cutaneous warts, which include vulgar, plantar and flat warts, these are benign, delimited and small epithelial lesions, which can appear anywhere on the surface of the skin, although they are usually more frequent on the hands, soles of the feet, as well as on the face and neck (7,8). Another less common manifestation of HPV infection, which is not linked to sexual contact, is recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, which is a more frequent condition in young children, characterized by the presence of exophytic lesions in the trachea and respiratory tract, which can cause alterations in crying and stridor (9).…”

“…Detailed examination of HPV in pregnant women is essential, as it involves potentially significant health consequences for both the mother and the fetus (8,9). Since hormonal and immune system changes during pregnancy could influence the persistence and development of HPV infection, the following research question arises: What is the impact of human papillomavirus infection on pregnant women?…”

Factors influencing the intention to engage in cervical cancer preventive behavior in human papillomavirus-infected women: a cross-sectional survey

“…Women who test positive for HPV often experience significant anxiety and uncertainty due to the associated risk of developing cervical cancer [ 17 ]. This anxiety extends to concerns about the potential effects on pregnancy and childbirth [ 18 ]. Studies involving gastric cancer and hemodialysis patients have demonstrated that uncertainty can influence the intention to engage in preventive behavior, with greater uncertainty correlating with a reduction in health-promoting actions [ 19 ].…”