Résumé
Since 2019, primary screening for cervical cancer has been carried out using the HPV-HR test for women over 30 years old. These new recommendations have resulted in a novel care pathway for women who are diagnosed with an initial positive test and normal cytology. The main objective was to explore the experiences of women aged 30 to 65 years old following the announcement of a first positive HPV-HR test with normal cytology. Method: a qualitative study through semi-structured interviews was conducted on a reasoned sample within 12 months following the screening in the French departments of Gard and Hérault. A phenomenological approach with a semio-pragmatic analysis was performed. Results: eleven interviews were analyzed to data saturation, revealing three conceptual categories. HPV is a taboo and unknown subject until its presence is announced, causing a real shock that triggers intense reactions of anxiety and fear. The repercussions of the announcement mainly affect the couple and sexuality; other areas of daily life are less impacted due to a rapid decrease in reactions over time and to explanations provided by the healthcare professional. The healthcare professional plays a central part in providing information and reassurance in order to improve the experience of this announcement and limit its repercussions. Conclusion: the announcement of a first HPV diagnosis with normal cytology should be considered as bad news and announced as such. Women know little about the papillomavirus and associate it with cervical cancer, which leads to intense reactions. This announcement should not be neglected, and the healthcare professional has a central role in providing reassurance.