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Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most frequently sexually transferred infection. WHO presents HPV virus as the primary cause for cervical cancer, mentioning the importance of two vaccines that exist to prevent infections with HPV viruses. Among many countries, Armenia has been one of the latest ones that in 2017 tried to introduce HPV vaccine into Armenian healthcare system. Though multiple clinical trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of the HPV vaccine, the introduction of HPV vaccine emerged hysteria amongst some segment of Armenians. Given the fact that most of the studies lack data on social and psychological factors that contribute to the development of acceptance or rejection of a vaccine, this study aims to investigate individual and social factors influencing decision making about HPV vaccination in Armenia.

Material and methods: The study plans to apply qualitative methodology with an abductive qualitative content analysis approach. 12 semi-structured individual interviews, using interview guide comprised of 20 questions, will be conducted among two groups of mothers: vaccine favorable and vaccine hesitant. Random stratified sampling strategy will be applied to select interviewees from ''Armenia'' and ''Grigor Lusavorich'' medical centers located in Yerevan. Data analysis will be based on theoretical framework using Health Belief Model. Written informed consents and full ethical approval for this study will be obtained.

Discussion: The rationale of qualitative design for this study, as well as dissemination of results are presented. Strengths and limitations of this study protocol are discussed.

Conclusion: The hysteria emerged among Armenian mothers regarding vaccinating their13-year-old daughters resulted in the emergence of finding out the factors influencing their behavior. The study emphasizes the importance of filling this gap, since it will help policymakers develop more targetted interventions to address HPV vaccine hesitancy in Armenia.