HPV-positive hode- og halskreftpasienters erfaringer med endret kropp, intimitet og seksualitet

The aim of this study was to explore how patients with human papilloma virus (HPV)- positive head and neck cancer live with treatment and radiation induced side effects. We investigated how the treatment impacts the patients` experiences of intimacy, sexuality due to the HPV induced diagnosis. This qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured in-dept interviews and a thematic analysis. Eleven patients were included, one year or more after completing radiotherapy. The findings in this study fall into three main themes; 1) Acquiring head and neck cancer – “like an existential earthquake” 2) “Tongue kissing is over!” - Experiences of intimacy, sexuality, and an altered body and 3) Living with an HPV positive diagnosis. Oncology nurses and other health professionals must provide better information about HPV and encourage patients to address issues of intimacy and sexuality. By recognizing the need for information, we can provide better support for the patients in living with the changes after cancer treatment.