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Description:
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In this qualitative study , I explore the impact of national culture on the gender identity of Serbian women with hysterectomies , with special emphasis on traditional motherhood discourse and its implications for women who cannot bear children . More specifically , I investigate how women who have undergone hysterectomy (surgical removal of part or all of the uterus ) perceive themselves after the surgery and how that perception influences their sense of self , gender identity , and sexuality . Finally , I examine how these women communicate their gender identity to the people surrounding them , especially current and potential romantic partners , and how communication with their relational partners and others in their respective communities can help improve or diminish their emotional status after hysterectomy . In this report , I identify and analyze the following themes which emerged from the data gathered through my in -depth interviews : Serbian culture of imperative motherhood ; the role of relational partners ; Serbian women’s health beliefs and practices ; spirituality and religion in relation to hysterectomy experience ; the role of social networking in the lives of Serbian women , and stigmatization and stigma potential . These six prominent themes are all embedded in the fabric of Serbian culture and represent the summary of most common reactions , fears , anxieties , problems , ivattitudes , and beliefs Serbian women with hysterectomies may experience before or following the hysterectomy procedure . This study identifies ethnicity and nationality related issues influencing women’s hysterectomy experience and the experience of their partners , i .e . , takes important cultural factors into account , analyzes them , and identifies social , historical , and cultural reasons for their existence . Furthermore , the current study identifies and provides explanation about the role of the social community , especially the roles other females play in influencing the attitudes of women with the lived experience of hysterectomy and the impact other women’s attitudes may have on their gender identity . Finally , the current study recognizes the necessity for improvement of health services offered to Serbian women with hysterectomy experience and especially the importance of establishing support and self -help groups to help women deal with hysterectomy related issues , such as fears , anxieties , insecurities , communication problems , and impaired gender identity and gender identity shifts . |