Objectives This study aims to explore lived experiences of women with human papillomavirus (HPV) in the Iranian socio-cultural context, focusing on their understanding of the disease, associated challenges and the impact of these challenges on health-seeking behaviours. Design This qualitative study was conducted using Smith's Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) method, employing in-depth semi-structured interviews.
Setting Community-based recruitment in Tehran, Iran, with data collection conducted in 2025. Participants 10 women aged 24 - 44 years, diagnosed with HPV, were recruited in Tehran through purposive and convenience sampling.
Purposive sampling ensured rich experiential data relevant to the research question, while convenience sampling facilitated access to participants willing to discuss a sensitive topic. Interventions None.
This was an exploratory qualitative study.
BMJ Open published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 25 May 2026.
The item focuses on Sticky black stain that steals everything from you: the lived experiences of women living with human papillomavirus in Tehran, Iran.
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