General Information is Insufficient to Address the Specific Concerns of HPV Patients: Interviews for Better Patient Education

Abstract Introduction: Basic information alone does not adequately address the unique concerns of women diagnosed with human papillomavirus (HPV). The development of targeted and comprehensive educational resources is essential to effectively meet patients’ unique informational needs. The first step in creating such materials involves identifying the most common questions and concerns among the affected women. This study aims to delineate and address the frequently asked questions of Iranian women who have tested positive for HPV, with the goal of enhancing patient understanding and supporting informed decision-making. Methods A total of 40 women, aged 18–53, who tested positive for HPV participated in face-to-face, in-depth interviews. The purpose was to explore their informational needs regarding HPV. Data were analyzed using a conventional content analysis approach. Results Women's HPV-related informational needs were categorized into three main themes: What is HPV – Understanding HPV, including its various types, modes of transmission, persistence in the body, symptoms, and clinical manifestations. Risk Assessment – Evaluating cancer risk in virus-exposed areas, primary and specialized diagnostic procedures, HPV diagnosis in men, immunity acquisition following infection, the likelihood of viral clearance, and associated influencing factors. Treatment-Seeking – Exploring treatment concepts for asymptomatic individuals, options for genital wart management, medical and non-medical interventions, necessary lifestyle and sexual behavior modifications, strategies to prevent cancer and HPV/wart recurrence, vaccination for patients and their close contacts, and follow-up recommendations. The most common concerns among Iranian women diagnosed with HPV revolved around determining the source of infection, the possibility of non-sexual transmission (e.g., via clothing), and the virus's persistence. Many affected individuals expressed hope for a definitive cure for HPV, frequently experimenting with alternative treatments such as pseudo-medicines, supplements, mushrooms, and dietary modifications. Conclusion Women require a reliable, evidence-based educational resource that comprehensively addresses their HPV-related questions. By identifying and structuring the most frequently asked questions, this study can support health policymakers in designing targeted, evidence-based, and contextually relevant educational interventions tailored to women's specific informational needs.