Sexual Dysfunction Following Breast Cancer Chemotherapy: A Cross-Sectional Study in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

Introduction Sexual dysfunction is rarely studied in Indonesian patients with breast cancer. We aimed to assess the prevalence of sexual dysfunction symptoms following chemotherapy, as well as the pattern and the associated factors. Methods This cross-sectional study included 135 female breast cancer patients receiving primary chemotherapy. The present study measured the prevalence of sexual dysfunction symptoms using an e-questionnaire containing Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 4 at different time points. Other data included sociodemography, clinicopathology, treatment, and other concurrent symptom characteristics. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression tests were used to analyze any association among variables. Results In the whole panel, 86 (63.7%) of 135 cases experienced sexual dysfunction. The most common symptom was vaginal dryness (45.9%), followed by decreased libido (45.2%), dyspareunia (13.3%), delayed orgasm (11.1%), and anorgasmia (8.9%). When observed at five different time points, the frequency of symptoms increased during chemotherapy and persisted until six months after completing treatment. Chemotherapy duration of >120 days was associated with a higher probability of vaginal dryness (p=0.012) and decreased libido (p=0.033). Spouse age ≥55 years old and body mass index (BMI) ≥23 kg/m 2 were associated with a reduced probability of decreased libido (p=0.033 and 0.025, respectively). The presence of comorbidity was associated with a reduced probability of delayed orgasm (p=0.034). Conclusions A significant proportion of patients with breast cancer had sexual dysfunction following chemotherapy. Vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and dyspareunia were the commonest symptoms observed. Duration of chemotherapy, spouse age, BMI, and comorbidity were associated with the risk of sexual dysfunction occurrence.

Effects of psychological intervention on negative emotions and psychological resilience in breast cancer patients after radical mastectomy

“…It includes symptoms such as vaginal dryness and decreased sexual desire[ 20 - 21 ]. Haris et al [ 22 ] discovered in their survey analysis that the frequency of sexual activity reduced after surgery in the BC patients, and some patients even reported a lack of sexual activity. This can lead to a strong sense of inferiority in patients, as they believe they have lost their feminine charm.…”

“…In severe cases, they may develop suicidal tendencies. Relevant research data indicate that BC patients undergoing radical mastectomy are more likely to develop anxiety and depression compared to general cancer patients[ 22 - 25 ].…”

Pleasurable and problematic receptive anal intercourse and diseases of the colon, rectum and anus

“…Systemic therapy can also affect arousal and orgasm 339 through chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity 340 . Chemotherapyinduced peripheral neurotoxicity is among the most common adverse effects, with a prevalence ranging from 19% to 85%, and can markedly affect pleasurable intercourse 341 .…”