出版社：Grupo de Pesquisa Metodologias em Ensino e Aprendizagem em Ciências
摘要：This study aims to describe the meaning of pelvic brachytherapy and its effects on the perception of women following treatment. It is narrative research carried out at the Centro de Pesquisas Oncológicas (Santa Catarina/ Brazil), including 34 women with gynecological cancer, in follow-up at the physiotherapy service after the end of treatment. Data collection by semi-structured interview submitted to content analysis. Theoretical framework supported by the Theory of Comfort. Of the results stand out, 88.25% had cervical cancer, mean age of 54.4 years, 26.47% were 30-39 years old, 41.17% had stage IIB, 88.25% had not had a hysterectomy. The meaning found in the narratives declare the difficulties in obtaining the diagnosis, coping with cancer, brachytherapy and adverse effects such as genito-urinary, intestinal and sexual changes causing impaired comfort and/or discomfort. Professional support and self-care are perceived as an aid to comfort. The waiting room means comfort or discomfort. Conclusion: it appears that the meanings of therapy and its effects show the confrontations experienced and that women need professional support, which reinforces the importance of health education and clinical evaluation during and after brachytherapy for prevention, control, self-care of adverse effects and cancer care for better quality of life. To reduce discomfort, clinical interventions and the use of educational technologies can provide better relief, tranquility and favor the transcendence of women with gynecological cancer.
