Infecções sexualmente transmissíveis e as vivências de mulheres em situação de reclusão

Abstract

Objective: to know the risks that characterize women prisoners as a susceptible group to sexually transmitted infections-(STI), to reveal the reactions to the diagnosis and to discuss the importance of health counselling. Method: descriptive research with qualitative approach. It occured in a feminine prison-Teresina/Piauí, with nine women prisoners living with STI/AIDS. The data collection, with a semi-structured form, was carried out between August-September of 2010. The interviews were recorded, transcripted and the content analysis was made. This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Federal University of Piauí, (CAAE No 4891.0.000.044-10). Results: use of illicit drugs, multiple sexual partners and unprotected sex were the most frequent risk behaviours. Facing the diagnosis, the reactions were sadness, scare, fear of family judgment/rejection, anger and bargain. Moreover, the health counselling is indispensable to cope with these infections. Conclusion: nursing counselling and emotional support are decisive tools when there is a STI/AIDS diagnmosis.