Psychological Impact and Information Needs for Women with Abnormal Pap Smears
Author Information
Author(s): Joseph Monsonego, Javier Cortes, Daniel Pereira da Silva, Anna Francisca Jorge, Patrick Klein
Primary Institution: Institut of the Cervix, Paris, France
Hypothesis
How do women react to receiving abnormal Pap smear results and what information do they need?
Conclusion
Women expressed a strong desire for more information about cervical cancer and HPV-related diseases, indicating a need for better communication and support from healthcare providers.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 90% of women discussed their results with family or friends.
- Anxiety, panic, and stress were common reactions to receiving abnormal results.
- Women in Spain reported lower levels of anxiety compared to those in France and Portugal.
Takeaway
When women find out they have an abnormal Pap smear, they often feel scared and want more information about what it means and what to do next.
Methodology
A self-administered questionnaire-based study was conducted among women in France, Spain, and Portugal who received abnormal Pap smear results within the last 12 months.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from differences in participant demographics across countries.
Limitations
The study was not powered for statistical comparisons and did not allow for statistical adjustment of results.
Participant Demographics
The majority of participants were under 50 years old, with 55% married or living with a partner.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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