Feelings of pre-adolescents and adolescents regarding vaccination against human papillomavirus

Abstract

Objective: to identify the feelings of pre-adolescents and adolescents regarding vaccination against human papillomavirus. Method: this is a phenomenological study, with a qualitative approach, carried out with 10 participants, being pre-adolescents and adolescents, whose vaccinations were performed in the vaccination room of a Basic Health Unit in a municipality in Minas Gerais. The testimonies were recorded and transcribed in full for later analysis. The treatment of the data took place through Content Analysis. Results: most interviewees attributed the meaning of vaccination to the fact that it prevents cervical cancer. The lack of knowledge about the purpose of the HPV vaccine is evident in some statements. The fear of the vaccine was also in evidence, justified by the fact that it was an injection, pain, needle and for fear of the reaction. As preventive measures, the use of condoms and periodic visits to the gynecologist were mentioned. Six of the participants were unable to report any preventive measures against human papillomavirus. Conclusion: the participants understand the importance of vaccination against human papillomavirus, although six participants, as well as their families, reported being afraid of the pain of vaccination or possible post-vaccination adverse events.