The perceptions of women with gynecological cancer after radiotherapy treatment: a gender-based qualitative study

Abstract

Gynecological cancer is on the rise and radiotherapy is resorted to for its treatment, which affects the patients. This study was conducted following qualitative methodology to analyze women’s gender-based perceptions. The data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews. Five categories were defined: 1. feelings; 2. daily living activities; 3. role in the couple/family; 4. coping; and 5. knowledge and uncertainties. There was one emerging category: embarrassment and effects of toxicity. The qualitative data analysis was performed in Nudist NVivo V.11. It was concluded that the patients presented both positive and negative feelings, there were limitations to their daily living activities, their role in the couple/family was affected, they faced problems with resignation, emotional avoidance, and spirituality, they mostly stated having incomplete information, and they underwent uncomfortable situations due to the secondary effects of radiotherapy