Qualitative exploration of sexual life among breast cancer survivors at reproductive age

Abstract

Background Our understanding of the experiences of women at reproductive age regarding sexual life and issues they may face after starting the treatment of breast cancer is limited. Therefore, this qualitative study aimed to explore sexual life and its related issues among breast cancer survivors at reproductive age in Iran. Methods A qualitative research was conducted. Participants were 21 breast cancer survivors who were under 51 years of age that were chosen using purposeful sampling. In-depth semi-structured interviews were carried out for data collection and the content analysis method was used for data analysis. Results The data analysis led to the development of main theme of ‘unfulfilled sexual life’. Also, four subthemes were: ‘undesirable sexual function’, ‘context-based beliefs’, ‘unmet information and supportive needs’, and ‘emotional crisis’. Conclusions Our research findings inform healthcare providers about the experiences of breast cancer survivors and related changes in their sexual and marriage life at reproductive age. Nurses and other healthcare providers in the multidisciplinary team should proactively identify health-related problems and design appropriate caring strategies to mitigate sexual and marriage issues among breast cancer survivors. Also, the establishment of sexual health counseling units for breast cancer survivors can help this vulnerable group of women with the improvement of their long-term sexual satisfaction.

Development and validation of a guideline on sexual and reproductive health of breast cancer survivors in Iran: a mixed methods study protocol

“…Age at breast cancer diagnosis is also significantly lower compared to the rest of the world, and many Iranian patients are still in their reproductive years [ 3 ]. In addition, studies have shown that Iranian breast cancer survivors do not receive sufficient information regarding reproductive health [ 32 ] and almost no information regarding sexual health [ 33 ]. Therefore, the development of this guideline will be extremely beneficial.…”

Sexual Inactivity and Sexual Dissatisfaction Among Breast Cancer Survivors and Their Partners

“…Karin et al suggested that treatment-induced symptoms, depression, and age were predictors of sexual problems [26]. Through a qualitative study, Maryam et al indicated that adverse sexual function (vaginal dryness or pain, changes in sexual desire, and decreased sexual arousal) leads to decreased sexual satisfaction among survivors [27]. Jennifer et al concluded that a quarter of couples are not having sex because they are uninterested in it (78%) and too tired (44%) [13].…”

Young Women with Breast Cancer in Resource-Limited Settings: What We Know and What We Need to Do Better

“…Sexual function is a fundamental aspect of patients’ well-being. 57 BC treatment modalities can lead to various sexual changes among BC survivors. 58–60 Locoregional treatments, including surgery and radiotherapy, can produce intense emotional distress, cause a detrimental change in body image, and reduce sensitivity in the breasts.…”

“…Four main barriers leading to an unfulfilled sexual experience were identified: a) undesirable sexual function, characterized by decreased sexual desire, arousal and satisfaction, less frequent sexual relationships, and perception of diminished sexual attractiveness; b) context-based beliefs, including religious, cultural and family beliefs; c) unmet information and support needs by health care providers; and d) emotional crisis, with feelings of loss of femininity and guilt. 57 …”