Reasons given by women undergoing chemotherapy for cervical cancer for not having had a Pap test

Abstract

The present study is a descriptive quantitative analysis that highlights the importance of understanding women's difficulties in having A Pap smear test. Such procedure is an essential tool for the diagnosis of cervical cancer, the second most common type of cancer among women. The study aimed to identify, among women with cervical cancer undergoing chemotherapy, the difficulties for having a Pap smear exam. The group studied comprised 20 women; 65% of them performed the examination as recommended, 70% had had the test at some point in life, 75% were diagnosed during their gynaecological exam and 25% by preventive tests. The reasons given for not undergoing the test were as follows: not being sexually active; having a steady sex partner; unawareness about the exam; thinking it was not necessary; the use of condoms; the use of a contraceptive; not presenting vaginal discharge or other gynaecological complaints; never having had a sexually transmitted disease; believing the test had to be paid for; not having access to health facilities that performed the test; health care units performed the test only during working hours; the health unit lacked material to perform the test; could not schedule an appointment; assuming that it was no longer needed at a certain age; being ashamed of the examination; missing the test; forgetting to get the results; not knowing it could prevent cancer. The reasons listed above indicate the need for a greater effectiveness in health education actions.