3. c. Fear of Premature Menopause
A few women over 40 who had no pregnancy intention mentioned concerns about early menopause. Testing positive for high-risk HPV genotypes and abnormal cytology have made these participants fearful of premature ovarian insufficiency.
”I have noticed my periods becoming infrequent. I’ve tested positive for HPV 16. I feel that my periods get missed and irregular due to this disease. Could this virus cause me to menopause? I’m worried I’m in menopause. I don’t like to get there.” (P.18)
Another stated: ”I had a hysterectomy last year (because of fibroids and heavy periods). They hadn’t removed my ovaries. I also had a high-risk HPV 53, but I got vaccinated, I’m worried about the effect of HPV on my ovaries.” (P.15)