Iatrophobia: a case of women who have undergone clinical breast examination procedures

Purpose This study sought to determine the nature of experiences of women who had undergone clinical breast examination (CBE) to diagnose breast cancer. Despite health officials advocating for CBE for women, biennial uptake remains relatively low. It is likely to be the result of their previous experiences. This necessitates the need for research on the experiences of women who have undergone such a procedure. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected through interviewing women who had undergone the medical procedure, and analysed thematically. A sample of 30 purposively selected women were interviewed. Findings The results indicated that the palpitating procedures has led some women to feel violated especially where the male health practitioners look like they are eliciting sexual pleasure, and the women feel involuntarily stimulated, embarrassed, fearful and pained. The study recommended the use of same gender health practitioners, and providing healthcare education to the patients. Practical implications The study is significant in bring knowledge on improving uptake of CBE procedures. Originality/value This research is unique in that it investigated the issue of women health in culturally sensitive areas and was able to bring forth new knowledge on the perception of women with regard to breast cancer examination.