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The psychosocial impact of human papillomavirus infection: implications for health care providers
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1996
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The study surveyed 837 ASHA subscribers about HPV experiences, with 489 completed responses analyzed descriptively. Results showed that over three‑quarters of respondents experienced depression or anger, two‑thirds felt shame, and HPV negatively impacted sexual enjoyment and activity, with many reporting dissatisfaction with provider counseling.
The American Social Health Association (ASHA) surveyed people with human papillomavirus (HPV) about their experiences with the disease and its effect on their lives. A sample of 837 was chosen from the subscribers to HPV News , ASHA's quarterly journal for people with HPV. Of the sample, 489 returned completed surveys, which addressed medical history, health care experiences, personal impact, and demographic information. Data analysis was descriptive. Data illustrated that the psychosocial impact of HPV can be serious. More than threequarters of respondents reported feelings of depression and anger, and two-thirds feelings of shame. Sexual enjoyment and activity were also negatively affected by HPV. Additionally, respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the diagnosing health care providers' counselling on emotional and sexual issues. These results may be instructive to those delivering health services by providing insight into the significant personal impact of HPV on those infected.