Conhecimento de mulheres sobre Candidíase vulvovaginal recorrente: pesquisa-ação em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde de Grajaú – MA

Abstract

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is caused by the etiological agent Candida albicans in 80% to 92% of cases, with the remainder due to non-albicans species (glabrata, tropicalis, krusei, parapsilosis). The symptoms caused by this infection provide intense discomfort and are characterized by burning, dyspareunia, itching, and discharge with clumps. In this perspective, the present study aimed to develop an action research with patients from a Basic Health Unit in the municipality of Grajaú – MA regarding recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). It is an action research, with a quantitative-qualitative approach, of an exploratory-descriptive nature. The sample consisted of 16 women, aged 18 to 40 years, who regularly attend the Family Planning Program and received a positive diagnosis for Candida sp in the year 2023. The results showed that the majority of women did not have RVVC, however, they presented signs and symptoms characteristic of the disease. Prior to the workshops, the participants underwent an assessment to identify prior knowledge about the topic. In this assessment, it was found that 75% were not familiar with the etiological agent of VVC, nor did they know what characterized recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). With regard to predisposing factors, few were able to report them. There were also reports of excessive intimate hygiene practices and little knowledge about cervical cytology examination. However, different results were observed after the educational workshops. Thus, it is acknowledged that the workshops facilitated the participants' knowledge regarding vulvovaginal candidiasis, its causes, effects, and preventive measures, so that the participants could then apply the acquired knowledge in their daily lives. This highlights health education as a strategy for health promotion and prevention, as well as an important tool for strengthening the bond between professionals/teams and service users