Proposal for a model for the care of the sexual health of the young adult before HPV

Abstract

Introduction: Sexually Transmitted Infections such as HPV mainly affect adolescents and young adults; Women are more susceptible to contracting them due to multiple factors. Promoting sexual health has increased knowledge about prevention, but it is still insufficient. Objective: to propose a model of sexual health care in young adults before HPV. Methodology: the focus of the study was qualitative, convenience sampling, with 13 sexually active key informants. A semi-structured interview was used in the data collection to identify the paradigm of the young adult against HPV in three categories: sexuality,risk of infection, and care. The theoretical proposal of the model reinterprets the concepts to build the framework of the proposal. Results: beliefs or myths prevail about sexuality limited to intercourse as the only source of pleasure; HPV is recognized as an STI, but it is unknown if there are symptoms and it is confused with another STI; there is a risk ofinfection mainly due to the number of sexual partners, the responsibility for care is left to the couple, and health services are not used as a preventive form. The care proposal emphasizes self-care according to this paradigm that integrates the physical, psychological, self-knowledge and spiritual areas. Conclusions: self-care is an interesting concept to address in promoting the sexual health of young adults in the face of the reality that they live concerning STIs.