Breast Cancer: Meanings Attributed by Lesbian Women and Their Partners to Healthcare

Abstract

Abstract In oncological services, questions on sexual orientation are not even addressed by professionals during appointments, which reinforces the invisibilization of lesbian women. This supports the assumption that all women assisted due to breast cancer have a hetero-oriented sexuality. This qualitative study aimed to analyze the meanings attributed by lesbian women with breast cancer and their partners to care practices and their health needs. Seven women participated, four of whom had been diagnosed with breast cancer and three were their intimate partners. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted, subjected to thematic analysis, interpreted from a gender perspective. Patients and partners reported receiving adequate care in health services and felt supported by professionals, but they also experienced episodes of disrespect and discrimination. The findings confirm the need to adopt inclusive health policies that are sensitive to the specificities of lesbian women.

Keywords

• breast neoplasms
• homosexuality
• gender
• health personnel attitudes
• health services accessibility