The aim of this study was to analyze reasons which influenced a group of women on never having done the Papanicolaou test, even after they started their sexual life. It was a qualitative research and the question "Why have you never done the preventive exam before?" was asked during the approach. The descriptions were analyzed through Bardin´s content analysis technique. Women showed not to know much about cancer and the importance and techniques for prevention. They also revealed to be afraid of doing the exam and knowing the result. Shame and embarrassment were feelings expressed by women, due to the intimacy exposition they're submitted to. They also expressed cultural values which make attitude changing difficult. Having a job, children and the access to this kind of service were related as impediment factors too. The results showed the importance of educational actions on the necessity of prevention in the beginning of sexual activities, as well as the demystification of techniques and results.
Uterine cervical neoplasms; Vaginal smears; Woman's health