Development of scripts for use in consultations for HPV-tested women
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Final development and field testing of scripts for use in consultations for human papillomavirus (HPV) tested women in the Natinal Cervical Screening Programme
IRAS ID
124751
Contact name
Clare Wilkinson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Bangor University
Research summary
Cervical cancer is a rare consequence of specific types of the commonest sexually-transmitted infection (STI) called human papillomavirus (HPV). UK Cervical Screening Programmes are changing to include a test for these HPV types in women who have a borderline or mildly abnormal smear test result. Instead of having frequent repeat tests, women who have HPV will be referred for treatment straight-away (colposcopy); women who have mildly abnormal cervical screening test results and do not have HPV will not need treatment or follow-up and will have their next routine screening test 3-5 years later.
Although minor abnormalities of the cervix can be easily treated, women are often very upset by an HPV diagnosis. Few women know about HPV and many do not read the information sent. They worry about having an STI, blame themselves, doubt their partner’s fidelity, fear effects on fertility, and find it difficult to confide in anyone. Women who test negative may be concerned about their lack of follow-up.
Because scientific explanation about HPV are complex, it is difficult for doctors and nurses to share information in a short appointment. Our team has developed a full set of educational messages, backed up by science. We want to check, through focus group discussions with women, which messages are most helpful and how best to phrase them in brief and readable scripts for doctors and nurses to use. We will then test them with a small group of women who have experienced an abnormal cervical screening test result and HPV testing.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2
REC reference
13/NS/0113
Date of REC Opinion
15 Aug 2013
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion