Factors associated with not-performing periodic pap smear screening tests

Abstract

This study aimed at identifying factors associated with not performing periodic pap smear. It was a descriptive study with qualitative approach, carried out from November/2008 to January/2009, with 83 users of the Family Health Strategy, in the district of Caio Prado, Itapiúna-Ceara, Brazil. Data were collected through semi-structured interview and a guiding question, being approached according to content analysis, emerging theme categories. Factors related to the interviewees for not observing the periodicity of the review relate to the preference for herbal medicine rather than conventional therapy and the social and individual aspects of the women. These women find the exam as an aggressive, physical process that affects them emotionally. It is suggested better training of health professionals to understand the social and individual contexts of those women who can contribute negatively to adherence to cytological examination.