Feminine identity: the representation of the uterus for women undergoing hysterectomy

Abstract

Objective: To identify the representation of the uterus for women who underwent hysterectomy and experience of sexuality in this period. Method: Qualitative survey conducted in October 2008 in a teaching hospital in southern Brazil, with five women hysterectomy. It was used as a tool to semi-structured interview. For data analysis we used the thematic content analysis. Results: For women the uterus was identified as an organ useless, having already played their reproductive role and its removal did not appear to interfere with the way they view their sexuality and femininity. Conclusions: Providing information to women who undergo hysterectomy may assist in understanding that this procedure does not interfere with female identity.