Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine-induced risk perceptions may lead to riskier sexual activity or STI diagnosis. Using 5-item scales, the researchers sought to determine if risk perceptions immediately following HPV vaccination were associated with the number of partners, condom use at last sexual intercourse, or STI diagnosis over the next 48 weeks in HIV-infected young women. According to generalised estimating equation models, a lower reported need for safer sexual practises was related to a lower total number of sexual partners, and a lower perceived risk of HPV was related to a subsequent report of having used condoms during last intercourse. Lower perceived risk of other STIs had no effect on later sexual activity.
According to the findings, incorrect risk perceptions following HPV vaccination, such as a decreased reported need for safer sexual activities and a lower perceived risk of HPV or other STIs, were not related with risky behaviours or STI diagnosis in HIV-infected young women.
Reference:https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/21645515.2019.1582401
