Experience of women submitted to mastectomy

Abstract

Objective: To identify the experience of mastectomized women treated at a secondary reference center for women's health in a municipality in the interior of Minas Gerais. Methods: This is a descriptive, exploratory field research, with a qualitative approach, developed with 10 mastectomized women. Data were collected using a predetermined interview script based on the literature, which was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: The age group from 30 to 53 years prevailed, most women underwent mastectomy together with chemotherapy and radiotherapy and the most affected domain was the psychological one. The analysis resulted in three thematic categories: Experiences and feelings: for some the experience was overwhelming; Difficulties: mainly changes in daily lifestyle and Adaptation: related to the support, affection, love and encouragement they got from friends and family. Conclusion: The present research reinforces the need for a differentiated look and better auscultation of women with breast cancer, and self-confidence, self-esteem and self-determination are essential for psychic and emotional well-being throughout the course of treatment for breast cancer. mom.