Experiences of patients who had undergone mastectomy at Mankweng Hopital in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Mastectomy is one of the treatments for breast cancer. It causes a change in the appearance of the breast thus causing a major effect on women’s self‑image and a decreased sense of femininity that can lead to anxiety and depression to such an extent that they avoid visiting public places. The study explored and described experiences of women who had undergone mastectomy at Mankweng Hospital, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Study design: This study used a phenomenological approach to perform a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive, and contextual research. Using a non-probability purposive sample of about 15 women who had undergone mastectomy in Mankweng hospital. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. The semi-structured interviews' audio recordings were transcribed verbatim. Seven steps procedure for data analysis using Colaizzi method was used to interpret the data. Results: The most challenging experience by women who had undergone mastectomy defined as a feeling of being disabled, anxious, relieved, acceptance, and financial constraints. Conclusion: Strategies to address the challenges faced by women who had undergone mastectomy has been developed to assist them with coping mechanism post mastectomy and living a normal life. Key concepts: Breast Cancer, Mastectomy, Women