This is a qualitative study, conducted at a Clinic of Mastology of a public hospital of the Federal District, which aimed to know the impact of breast cancer in the lives of couples, women submitted to mastectomy and their partners. The sample consisted of three couples, five women submitted to mastectomy and three partners. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, which gave rise to two broad categories: Perceptions about breast cancer and Consequences in everyday life. The diagnosis of cancer is received as a traumatic one, bringing feelings of mutilation, dependence, prejudice and loss of femininity. One conclude that significant changes occur in married life and that mutual support is needed to better cope with the disease, followed by the necessary family support.
Women's health; Breast cancer; Mastectomy
