Vulnerabilidade individual de lésbicas e mulheres bissexuais ao HIV

Abstract

Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus infection is a reality in Brazil and in the world and, no matter how much the topic is discussed, the number of cases isstill increasing. One ofthe crucial determinants for the increase in cases is the vulnerability of individuals to infection. Thus, for the population of lesbians and bisexual women, vulnerability not only in their individual dimension, but also in other extensions, is a factor of great importance to be analyzed when it comes to HIV infection. Objective: To analyze the contexts of individual vulnerability to HIV/AIDS of lesbians and bisexual women. Method: This is an exploratory and descriptive survey study with a cross-sectional approach and quantitative approach. The study was carried out in the city of Recife, and the collection initially came from the Specialized HIV/AIDS Care Service, which is located at the Oswaldo Cruz Hospital. The survey was carried out between the months of May and December 2021 and the target population consisted of women who declared having sex with other women. The data explained were collected, followed by tabulation in the Excel software, where descriptive analysis and the construction of graphs were performed. Results: Regarding the level of education, only 2 (1.9%) participants had incomplete high school, 22 (20.9%) had completed high school, 24 (22.9%) had already completed higher education and 18 (17.1%) were specialists and/or postgraduates. 46 (43.8%) were single, 41 (39%) were dating, 9 (8.5%) were in a stable union and 7 (6.6%) reported being married. 72 women (68.6%) reported having had relationships with men and women and 33 (31.4%) had only been involved with women during their lives. For prevention, 46 stated that they did not prevent themselves and 59 answered that they did prevention. Discussion: The research revealed that even though MSW know how transmission occurs and having the level of education of most of the participants 50 (47.6%) having completed higher education and/or specialists, this knowledge does not certify HIV prevention practices in sexual relations among these women and one point that helps is the lack of professional preparation to guide and intervene in the situations of vulnerability faced by this public. The acceptance of the use of prevention methods in sexual relations goes beyond the simple distribution or instruction on their use. The precision of adapting measures to the reality and specific needs of MSM is clear, promoting security and freedom. To this end, it is crucial to combat misinformation, raise awareness about the risks, and demystify the mistaken perception of invulnerability to sexual transmission of HIV. Final considerations: The study was able to analyze the different contexts of individual vulnerability that lesbians and bisexuals face. These vulnerabilities include not only invisibility, but also the mistaken perception of risk associated with their sexual practices, leading to distancing from prevention and protection actions.