This clinical research study aimed to determine reasons for choosing active surveillance over surgery among women given a hypothetical diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 (CIN2). Australian women with no prior diagnosis of cervical cancer or cervical abnormality CIN2 or above were asked to indicate their preference for active surveillance or surgery after viewing a hypothetical scenario of testing human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive. Reason/s for their choice were thematically analysed.
When presented with balanced information on the benefits and harms of different management options for CIN2 and given a choice, most women in this hypothetical situation chose active surveillance over surgery. Addressing women’s concerns about active surveillance may open up the possibility that if deemed safe, it could be an acceptable alternative to surgery for women.