Acessibilidade / Reportar erro

The knowledge and attitudes of female street sweepers regarding gynecological care

This qualitative approach study carried out an open interview with female road sweeper in January 2010 to identify their knowledge of their own bodies and how they take care of themselves considering gynecological alterations. The following signification units were identified in the organization of information: women's knowledge of their bodies; women's knowledge of vaginal discharge; how women treat vaginal discharge; vaginal discharge intervening in the work process. Comprehensive analysis revealed that these women know nothing or a little of genitals and lack of care interfere with their work activities. Nurses have important role as educators in the prevention and in the therapeutic conduct of the gynecological alterations, aiming to provide better life quality. In this sense, the professional/client interaction during the gynecological consultation represents an excellent opportunity to establish bonds of confidence and to move towards the construction of knowledge in health.

Women's health; Nursing care; Female genital diseases


Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Programa de Pós Graduação em Enfermagem Campus Universitário Trindade, 88040-970 Florianópolis - Santa Catarina - Brasil, Tel.: (55 48) 3721-4915 / (55 48) 3721-9043 - Florianópolis - SC - Brazil
E-mail: textoecontexto@contato.ufsc.br