A qualitative study on the experiences of stigmatisation and spiritual coping among women diagnosed with cervical cancer in Turkey.

backgroundCervical cancer is one of the most common gynecological cancers among women worldwide and stands out as a significant public health issue, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Despite the preventable nature of the disease, access to early diagnosis and treatment is often limited by structural, individual, and societal barriers. Stigma associated with cervical cancer and HPV is at the forefront of these barriers. Furthermore, spiritual resources are known to play a critical role in coping with the psychosocial burden of the disease. The aim of this study is to examine how women diagnosed with cervical cancer in turkey experience stigma and how they use spiritual coping strategies.

methodsThis qualitative study employed a phenomenological design to explore lived experiences of women diagnosed with cervical cancer in Turkey. Fifteen women aged between 28 and 55 years, with diverse marital, educational, and treatment backgrounds, participated in the study. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis approach. Data collection continued until thematic saturation was reached, with no new themes emerging in the final interviews. The COREQ checklist was used to enhance methodological rigor.

resultsThe analysis revealed four main themes: “Stigmatization and Social Judgment,” “Spiritual Coping Strategies,” “Social Support and Solidarity,” and “Experiences Related to the Treatment Process.” Most participants described experiences of social isolation and moral judgment, often linked to perceptions of immorality and feelings of guilt. Spiritual coping strategies such as prayer, worship, reading the Qur’an, and remembrance of God were commonly used to sustain hope and emotional resilience, while collective religious practices fostered a sense of social solidarity. Social support from family members, friends, and peer support groups alleviated loneliness for many women, although stigma limited support-seeking for some. Supportive communication and clear information from healthcare professionals enhanced trust and treatment adherence, whereas transportation difficulties, physical fatigue, and communication gaps posed significant challenges.

conclusionsThe study reveals that the experiences of women diagnosed with cervical cancer are shaped not only by biomedical factors but also by social and spiritual dimensions. Stigmatization negatively affects women’s social lives and psychological well-being, while spirituality and social support mechanisms emerge as powerful coping resources. Therefore, healthcare services provided to women living with cervical cancer should not focus solely on medical treatment but should be structured with a holistic approach that also includes psychosocial support and spiritual counseling. By simultaneously examining stigma and spiritual coping within a phenomenological framework, this study offers a culturally grounded understanding of cervical cancer experiences that extends beyond biomedical perspectives.