BETWEEN FEAR AND PREVENTION: OBSTACLES TO PAP SMEAR BY WOMEN IN THE FAMILY HEALTH STRATEGY: AN EXPERIENCE REPORT

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical cancer is a neoplasm associated with persistent infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and remains a significant cause of female morbidity and mortality in Brazil and worldwide. The cytopathological examination (Pap smear) is a fundamental strategy for prevention, early screening, and mortality reduction, but it faces cultural and psychological barriers. Experience report: This work describes extension activities carried out by nursing students in a Basic Health Unit in Teresina-PI, between April and May 2025, during educational actions aimed at promoting women's health. Lectures, discussion groups, and distribution of informational material were developed, focusing on the prevention of cervical cancer, users' rights, and encouraging adherence to the examination. Discussion: It was observed that factors such as fear, shame, misinformation about the examination, and discomfort with male professionals negatively impact adherence. The presence of educational activities contributed to building an environment of trust and open dialogue, promoting understanding of the importance of the examination. Conclusion: This experience reinforces the relevance of nursing and Primary Health Care in promoting self-care, humanized care, and health education, demonstrating that well-planned educational strategies can reduce sociocultural barriers and encourage adherence to cytopathological examinations.