"You are always left with doubts": information access among HPV-positive women in Greater Buenos Aires

Women who are Human Papillomavirus (HPV) positive with a normal Pap smear (HPV+/normal Pap) present a high risk of developing high-grade lesions but they exhibit very low levels of adherence in Argentina. This study was aimed to identify the information needs, sources of information, and barriers to accessing information among HPV-positive women with normal Pap after receiving their screening results.

We conducted 22 semi-structured virtual interviews with HPV-positive women with normal Pap (HPV+/normal Pap) women using a qualitative research strategy. Eligible women were between 30 and 64 years old and resided in a suburban Buenos Aires area. The interview data was thematically analyzed using the modules of the interview guide. Emergent categories were coded as subthemes, enabling a thematic analysis.

Perceived information needs among HPV-positive women with normal Pap smears include understanding: the sexual transmission of the virus (including dismantling the association with infidelity and considering non-sexual transmission possibilities), the meaning of the diagnosis in relation to cancer, and the follow-up procedures despite the absence of treatment. On the other hand, unperceived information needs encompass recognizing the association between an HPV+ result and other gynecological health problems, as well as dispelling socio-cultural misconceptions about HPV (e.g., the misconception that high-risk HPV only affects young women with multiple sexual partners). Common sources of information for these women include medical visits, internet resources, and advice from close relatives. However, barriers to accessing information include encountering inaccurate online information, receiving insufficient information from healthcare professionals, and facing difficulties in raising questions and concerns during medical consultations.

It is crucial to strengthen the processes for delivering results during the medical consultation. New formats to provide information to HPV-positive women, both with normal and abnormal Pap smear, should also be considered.