Significado da imagem corporal e da sexualidade atribuídos por mulheres com doença renal crônica

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic non-communicable diseases have increased prevalence rates in the population, with a strong impact on health systems around the world, and chronic kidney disease appears as one of the most important. Objective: The study seeks to understand the perception of women with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis about their sexuality. Method: The research consists of an exploratory study, with a qualitative approach, within the assumptions of the phenomenological framework. Data collection took place from December 2023 to February 2024, through semi-structured interviews, lasting an average of 12 to 16 minutes in a Hemodialysis Center that serves users of the private network and Unified Health System, in the city of Presidente Prudente - SP, with 30 women aged 35 to 76. Results: In the search to unveil the essence of the phenomenon of perception of women with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis about their sexuality, the essential parts of the description gave rise to three thematic categories: 1) Concrete and symbolic experiences lived in one's own body; 2. Sexuality as an intersubjective space of shared existence; 3) Sexuality that transcends illness. Conclusion: It is concluded that there is an urgent need for reflections on the creation of spaces for dialogue with women to allow them to find a place to speak and specialized listening for their experiences.