We seek to identify the perceptions of women in situations of violence concerning the support and assistance received in its social context, particularly, the institutionalized resources to combat violence against women. A descriptive exploratory qualitative approach was developed at the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. We interviewed 57 women victims of aggravated assault domestic violence and analyzed the results thematically. The search for help occurs in its own social environment, together with family and friends. The use of health services depends on the perception of the severity of the condition and does not always result in adequate responses to these women's demands. In justice, the reality of helplessness and disbelief points to dislocation and failure of available social support institutions for victims. For integral and humanized care, the actions should go beyond the protocols of action, thinking of prevention and reduced violence strategies.
Public health; Domestic violence; Gender identity