Conhecimento e percepção de mulheres quanto ao exame preventivo para o câncer de colo do útero Knowledge and perception of women on the preventive examination for cervical cancer

This study aimed to know the perception of womens about the about the Pap smear in the municipality of Cajazeiras, PB. The research is exploratory, with qualitative approach. Data collection was performed in may 2011 with a structured interviews with a sample of sixteen women. Data analysis was carried out through thematic analysis. The results showed that part of the respondents had between 25 and 34 years, began their sexual life aged between 15 and 18 years and were womens holding in most, some schooling II incomplete. With regard to the Papanicolaou, nine women had performed. But, out of fear, shame and not present grievances no more held. Thus, it is necessary continuing health education to the community highlighted, considering the socioeconomic and cultural aspects, to ensure the quality of the screening program and information on the prevention of cervical cancer.