Women's perceptions of the male professional during Pap smear collection

Abstract

Cervical cancer remains a serious public health problem, being one of the leading causes of female mortality in Latin America. As a coping strategy, the cytopathological examination (Pap smear) is the primary tool for the early detection of precursor lesions. However, adherence to this procedure is often compromised by socioeconomic barriers and, above all, by emotional and cultural components. The objective of this study was to analyze the perceptions and feelings of women during the collection of the exam when performed by a male nurse. Methodologically, it is an integrative literature review, with a qualitative and descriptive approach, covering publications between 2019 and 2025 consulted in databases such as SCIELO, LILACS, and BDENF. The results indicate that feelings of fear, shame, and vulnerability are intensified by the presence of a male examiner, evidencing a resistance anchored in taboos regarding intimacy and the body. It is concluded that technical competence alone is insufficient to guarantee adherence; it is essential that the nurse develops "sensitive listening" and humanization practices that establish bonds of trust. The demedicalization of care and respect for female autonomy emerge as essential paths to mitigate absenteeism and increase the effectiveness of cancer screening in Primary Care, ensuring integral and dignified care for women's health.