Purpose
The aim of this study was to examine experiences and coping strategies of women receiving treatment for breast and gynecological cancers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
A descriptive, phenomenological approach was adopted. The study included 15 women receiving treatment for breast and gynecological cancers in the chemotherapy center of a university hospital. Data was collected with a descriptive characteristic form and semi-structured in-depth interviews.
Results
Data analysis revealed three main themes: Problems, protection and coping. The main theme of 'problems' was grouped into four categories: living with anxiety and fear, social isolation, physical difficulties, and financial difficulties. 'Protection' was grouped into four categories: decreased stigmatization, increased preventive measures, increased communication between family members, and keeping distance. Coping was grouped into four categories: religious practices, social support, positive thinking, and hobbies.
Conclusions
The participants were found to experience psychosocial, financial and physical difficulties. However, they also mentioned positive aspects of the pandemic: elimination of stigmatization due to the obligation for everyone to wear a mask, lack of visits due to the lockdown and enhanced communication with family members due to increased time spent at home. Religious practices, social support, positive thinking and spending time on hobbies were helpful to cope with the problems experienced during the pandemic. The results of this study can guide nurses in offering high-quality nursing care and counseling to women treated for breast and gynecological cancers during the pandemic.
Purpose
This study aimed to determine the effects of motherhood and body perception of pregnant women on sexual dysfunction.
Methods
Data were collected using a demographic data form, the Self‐Perception of Pregnants Scale (SPPS) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The study which is cross‐sectional was conducted with 280 pregnant women. Percentages, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analyzes were used for data analysis.
Findings
Pregnant women with a positive pregnancy‐related motherhood and body perception had low sexual dysfunction. There was a moderately significant positive relationship between sexual functions and pregnancy‐related motherhood perception (r: 0.430, p < 0.001) and a moderately significant negative relationship between pregnancy‐related body perception (r: −0.376, p < 0.001).
Clinical Implications
Healthcare professionals should know what is the motherhood and body perception of pregnants while evaluating sexual health.
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