Why Am I Scared of HPV?

Abstract

As a physician community, we must develop proven educational methods to explain human papillomavirus (HPV) so that we do not invoke patients’ confusion, guilt, anxiety and psychological distress. Patient participation in any type of medical care is dependent on their understanding of the problem, confidence in their knowledge and choice of medical options, and the cost of care relative to other important aspects of their life. HPV education should address the sexually transmitted nature of HPV, the natural history and outcomes of HPV infection, the medical nomenclature encompass- ing HPV, and where HPV testing fits within current cervical cancer screening guidelines.