Análise das vulnerabilidades programáticas de mulheres que fazem sexo com mulheres ao HIV

Abstract

Introduction: Historically, women's access to healthcare has often been viewed through a traditional lens, limiting this demographic solely to their reproductive and maternal processes while neglecting other aspects of their lives. Despite efforts to broaden the perspective on women's health and disease processes, sexuality remains a crucial aspect that requires attention, especially when delving into the sexual health of women who have sex with women. These individuals continue to be further marginalized and consequently rendered more vulnerable in this process. Objective: To analyze programmatic vulnerability contexts of women who have sex with women regarding HIV/AIDS. Method: This is an exploratory and descriptive cross sectional survey with a quantitative approach. The study was conducted in the city of Recife, with data initially collected from the Specialized Assistance Service for HIV/AIDS located at the Oswaldo Cruz Hospital. The research took place between May and December 2021, targeting women who identified as having sex with other women. The collected data were tabulated in Excel software, allowing for descriptive analysis and the creation of graphs. Results: 81.90% of the respondents reported attending some form of healthcare service, with 41.90% using public assistance services and 38.09% seeking services only when they fall ill. 52.38% mentioned encountering difficulties with healthcare professionals, and 30.47% reported not disclosing their sexual orientation during health appointments. Discussion: The research revealed that more than half of the interviewed women, approximately 52.38%, at some point in their lives experienced discomfort and encountered difficulties when receiving healthcare from professionals. Some responses pointed to general healthcare system challenges, such as a lack of professionals and appropriate materials. However, many responses were directly related to professionals' lack of preparation for MSM (women who have sex with women) and the fear of facing prejudice and violence. Final considerations: The healthcare system, as an institution, plays a crucial role in intervening in individuals' health-disease processes, alleviating their individual and social vulnerabilities to stimulate their potential and prevent illness. However, when this institution exhibits flaws, such as professional unpreparedness, the absence of adequate theoretical support, and the replication of social violence, this mitigating characteristic is lost, and other vulnerabilities that individuals face are magnified, increasing their risk of illness.