I Have HPV. Does That Mean That My Husband Cheated On Me?

Background: The purpose of this presentation is to educate nurses about the most current evidence based research findings regarding human papillomavirus (HPV). Many healthcare professionals are not current on the research associated with HPV. Thus, they are uncomfortable discussing these issues with patients. HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer, genital warts, and cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharynx. Most individuals have never heard about human papillomavirus and the association of it to cervical cancer. Cervical cancer, the greatest public health concern associated with the human papillomavirus, is preventable; therefore, it is the healthcare team’s responsibility to empower patients with scientifically accurate information regarding HPV prevention. 

Case: A newly married 29-year old white, healthy female presents to the clinic to obtain her ASCUS/+HPV Pap smear results. Upon receiving the diagnosis of human papillomavirus, with tears in her eyes, the patient responded to the nurse practitioner, "I have HPV. Does that mean that my husband cheated on me?" The patient was educated about transmission, clearance, and risks of HPV. Her question was answered by the nurse practitioner based on evidence-based practice literature findings. A new onset of HPV does not necessarily mean that infidelity has taken place. Research confirms that a healthy immune system can clear HPV in 12-24 months from the time of transmission. HPV persistence can occur for up to 10-15 years; therefore, it is possible for a partner to have contracted HPV from a previous partner and transmit it to their current partner. It is also possible that the patient's partner has recently cheated on her. However, research confirms both possibilities. 

Conclusion: Research literature confirms that scientifically current HPV skill-building and informational resources are needed to help healthcare providers meet the concerns of their patients.  HPV research has rapidly progressed; however, public knowledge has not kept pace with the scientific advances associated with it. Female patients want to know specific answers to their questions about the human papillomavirus and are seeking answers from their healthcare team. This is why it is so important for healthcare professionals, including nurse practitioners and nurses, to stay informed about the most recent and scientifically accurate HPV research that has been performed. 

Keywords: Human papillomavirus, HPV, Cervical Infection, Sexually Transmitted Infection, Patient Information