Estratégias de prevenção à IST utilizadas por mulheres que fazem sexo com mulheres

Abstract

The healthcare of Women Who Have Sex with Women (WSW) is essential for planning individualized care, which should be implemented based on the specific needs of this group. The issue of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among WSW remains neglected. There is a widespread misconception that sex between women is inherently safer, yet the risk of STI transmission persists. WSW continue to be invisible in public health policies. Given this scenario, there is an urgent need for research that analyzes and improves prevention strategies for this population. To analyze the STI prevention strategies used by women who have sex with women. This is a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive study. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews with 22 WSW, recruited using a snowball sampling method. The interviews were conducted remotely and in person. Data analysis was based on Bardin’s content analysis technique, through which thematic categories emerged, reflecting the participants' perceptions of their vulnerability to STIs and the challenges they face in accessing preventive supplies and adequate healthcare services. The findings revealed a low perception of risk among WSW, associated with the belief that their sexual practices carry a lower potential for STI transmission. Additionally, the absence of specific preventive supplies for this group was identified, leading many women to improvise prevention methods, such as cutting external condoms for oral sex. The study also highlighted the presence of institutional barriers, including the lack of specific guidelines for STI testing and screening in WSW, as well as the heteronormative approach of healthcare professionals, who often overlook the specificities of this population. The absence of targeted prevention campaigns further contributes to the ongoing gaps in sexual health care for WSW. There is an urgent need for the formulation of public policies and clinical guidelines that equitably address WSW, ensuring access to appropriate prevention supplies and stigma-free healthcare. The training of healthcare professionals to provide humanized care and the expansion of STI awareness campaigns aimed at WSW are essential for effective prevention. To ensure the sexual and reproductive health of WSW, it is crucial to develop specific care strategies that consider their sexual practices and vulnerabilities, promoting fair and comprehensive access to healthcare services.