Interactional Experiences of Pregnant Women with Syphilis During Prenatal Care
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12707/RVI25.95.44112Keywords:
prenatal care, social stigma, pregnant people, professional-patient relations, sexually transmitted diseasesAbstract
Background: Gestational syphilis is a major public health problem in Brazil and in many parts of the world. In healthcare settings, stigma surrounding the disease acts as a barrier to the relationship between professionals and patients.
Objective: To analyze the interactional experience of young women diagnosed with gestational syphilis in their encounters with healthcare professionals during prenatal care.
Methodology: This is an exploratory, qualitative study grounded in the theoretical framework of Symbolic Interactionism and thematic analysis. Individual, face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 Brazilian women diagnosed with syphilis during pregnancy. The study was approved by a Research Ethics Committee in Brazil.
Results: The interactional experience of young women with healthcare professionals during prenatal care was characterized by discomfort and vulnerability, as an effect of the symbolic meanings associated with syphilis in professional–patient interactions. The findings are presented in two thematic categories: The symbolism of syphilis, meanings and its associated suffering and A morally threatening relational context.
Conclusion: The interactional experience was marked by discomfort and the experience of prejudice related to the stigma surrounding sexually transmitted infections.
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References
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