Investigating Body Image and Self-Esteem in Kidney Transplant Patients: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Kidney transplantation is one of the life-saving therapies for patients with end-stage renal disease, which affects a person’s psychological, social, and physical well-being. How transplanted patients perceive their illness and their body can affect their physical and psychological recovery. Aim: This qualitative study was designed to evaluate self-esteem and body image in kidney transplant patients. Methods: The study involved 16 female renal transplanted patients. Data were collected using a two-part interview form developed by the investigators in accordance with the literature. We used Lundman’s method to transcribe the interviews and coded the data from the interviews. The results of the study were discussed using the themes. The first three interviews were entered into MAXQDA, and then, additional interviews were analyzed. Results: Six main themes and 15 subthemes were generated based on the thematic analysis of the interviews with participants about body image and self-esteem. Themes included body acceptance, changes in body image, deterioration of social relationships, changes in self-esteem, spousal concerns, and organ perceptions. This study collected detailed data on body image, self-esteem, social relationships, and spouse/partner relationships after kidney transplantation. Conclusion: The change in participants’ body image and self-esteem after kidney transplantation caused having negative feelings regarding sexual life, relationships, and social life and feeling unfamiliar with the transplanted organ.