Women's Experiences With Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia

Authors: Likes, Wendy M.¹; Russell, Cynthia²; Tillmanns, Todd³

Source: Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, & Neonatal Nursing, Volume 37, Number 6, November/December 2008 , pp. 640-646(7)

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

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Abstract:

Objective:

To explore women's experiences with vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia during diagnosis and treatment. Design:

Two focus groups, each with 3 participants, were conducted as a pilot study. Participants were asked open-ended questions about their experiences, quality of life, sexual functioning, body image, and well-being. Responses were audio taped, transcribed, and independently analyzed by 2 researchers to identify themes and develop categories of the participants' experiences. Setting:

Participants were recruited from an urban oncology clinic. Patients/Participants:

The study population consisted of 6 White women ranging in age from 22 to 72 years. Methods:

Participants with a diagnosis of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia were recruited using flyers posted in their oncologist's office. An interview guide was used focusing on participants' experiences. Results:

Participants described a cyclic journey with vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia related to the recurrent nature of the disease. Two internal influences on the journey were described: spirituality and time in life. Five external influences were discussed: significant others, health care providers, family, friends, and others with vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia. Conclusion:

Health care providers cannot alter the recurrent nature of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia; however, they can better understand a woman's experience and the variables that impact her experience in a negative or positive way.

Keywords: quality of life; gynecology; vulvar intraepithelial; neoplasia; qualitative methods

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1552-6909.2008.00291.x

Affiliations: 1: DNSc, APRN-Bc, is an assistant professor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Nursing, Memphis. 2: PhD, ANP, is a professor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Nursing, Memphis. 3: MD, is a physician at the West Clinic and University and an associate professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis

Publication date: 2008-11-01

Women's Experiences With Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia

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