Women's feelings about the changes caused by mastectomy

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the feelings of women in a support group for the changes caused by mastectomy. Method: descriptive study with a qualitative approach, performed in a support group for women with mastectomies in Cajazeiras, in the state of Paraíba, Brazil, in June and July 2014, with 20 subjects. It was used a semi-structured interview for data collection. The analysis was performed using the methodological process of the Collective Subject Discourse. Results: it was evident that women have adopted a unique way of face the breast cancer varying between negative feelings, concern about a move away from their children, closer spirituality and natural acceptance of the disease. Conclusions: importantly, from the understanding of these feelings, the nurse can build an appropriate care plan for the health needs of this target audience, thus providing a more efficient, effective and humane action.