Mother-Daughter Communication and College Women’s Confidence to Communicate with Family Members and Doctors about the Human Papillomavirus and Sexual Health

Study ObjectiveIn this study, we examined whether mother-daughter sexuality communication in midadolescence contributes to young women’s self-efficacy to consult with family members about sexual health problems, and to talk with physicians about the human papillomavirus (HPV).Participants and SettingYoung European American, Latina, and Asian Pacific Islander college women reported on how confident they felt talking to their family members and doctors about HPV and sexual health issues.Main Outcome MeasuresWe gathered retrospective data regarding the nature of mother-daughter communication, including sexuality communication, in midadolescence. Other variables included physician trust, knowledge about HPV, and reports of current sexual activity.ResultsMore openness in past general communication with their mothers, more perceived comfort in past sexuality communication, and a greater number of reproductive health topics discussed was linked to greater confidence in communicating with family members about sexual health problems. In addition, higher levels of sexual activity, more knowledge about HPV, and the number of reproductive health topics discussed with mothers in midadolescence, were associated with increased confidence talking to doctors about HPV and sexual health.ConclusionPositive communication experiences with mothers in the early years may reduce the shame, embarrassment, and anxiety associated with talking to physicians about sensitive sexuality issues.