A Pilot Study of Psychosexual Functioning and Communication in Women Treated for Advanced Stages of Cervical Cancer After the Diagnosis

Abstract

Introduction The purpose of this pilot study was to examine relationships between body image, perceived stress, partner and patient-provider sexual communication, and sexual functioning in women with advanced stages of cervical cancer (CC) after the cancer diagnosis. Methods In this pilot study, cancer patients (n = 30) and healthy women (n = 30) were compared. A study was conducted from January to March 2022. Sexual functioning and its predictors were assessed using the 6-item Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the Sexual Communication Self-Efficacy Scale (SCSES), the self-administered questionnaire contributing the patient-provider sexual communication, and the Body Esteem Scale (BES). The data was collected from January to June 2022. Results Women with cervical cancer after the diagnosis reported impaired sexual functioning, which was associated with self-efficacy in sexual communication, feeling comfortable discussing sexual issues with a healthcare provider, perceived stress, and body image. Compared to the control group, CC patients had significantly lower sexual functioning (mean 8.83 vs 19.23; p < 0.001). Conclusions Sexual functioning in women with CC is significantly impaired even after the diagnosis and is associated with psychosocial variables. The expanded study will include other predictors of sexual functioning and quality of life in women with CC on the larger group of patients. Policy Implications As cancer becomes a more chronic disease that affects even younger individuals, social policy should promote the sexuality issues in cancer patients, as it is an integral part of every person’s life, regardless of health status or age.

Breaking the silence: the role of sexual communication on quality of life in women with cervical cancer

“…As a unique experience, a cancer diagnosis can diminish the importance of sexual health [ 23 ], leading to a decline in sexual functioning and QoL, as along with depressive symptoms and an increased sense of loneliness. Avoiding discussion about sexual topics is known to lead to feelings of helplessness, anger, or depressive symptoms [ 7 ], as emphasized in patients’ statements that the period of illness is not conducive to discussing sexual activity. However, effective coping with the changes experienced may also lead to a reduction in the intensity of symptoms related to physical and emotional aspects, as well as improvements in social relationships [ 22 ].…”

“…Moreover, only a few patients in this study discussed sexual issues with their doctors. As patients may experience sexual dysfunction, decreased libido, or changes in preferred forms of intimacy [ 7 ], appropriate communication with a partner and doctor about sexual topics will instead allow for the renegotiation of preferences and an improved sexual self-image, while improving QoL.…”

“…Open sexual communication can be considered a crucial element in preserving and enhancing sexual health, as well as fostering satisfaction in relationships and psychological well-being. This communication allows for positive adaptation to cancer complications [ 2 , 7 ].…”