EXPLORATION OF PHYSICAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL EFFECTS OF GIGANTOMASTIA ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF WOMEN IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
Objective: To explore the physical, psychological and social effects of gigantomastia on the mental health of women in Nairobi County, Kenya, and understand how this rare breast condition impacts the overall wellbeing of affected individuals.
Methods and Materials: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted among 30 women aged 18-35 years living with gigantomastia in Nairobi County. Participants were recruited using snowball sampling technique and data collected through semi-structured virtual interviews via Zoom platform. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data, with themes organized according to the three study objectives: physical, psychological, and social effects on mental health.
Findings: Physical effects included large heavy breasts causing severe pain in back, shoulders, neck and chest, difficulties finding appropriate clothing, challenges performing physical activities, poor posture, and sleep disturbances. Psychological effects encompassed low self-esteem, negative body image, intense negative emotions including depression and anxiety, loss of interest in social activities, and development of unhealthy coping mechanisms. Social effects involved difficulties with social interaction, labeling and stigmatization, sexualization issues, and variable social support.
Conclusion: Gigantomastia substantially impacts women's mental health through complex interactions between physical discomfort, psychological distress, and social stigmatization. The condition requires comprehensive intervention strategies addressing medical treatment, psychological support, and community awareness to reduce stigma and improve quality of life for affected women.
Keywords: Gigantomastia, Macromastia, Mental Health, Women's Health, Breast Hypertrophy, Body Image, Quality of Lif e, Kenya
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