Sexual Health Issues Common Among Women with Breast Cancer
It is common for women being treated for breast cancer to experience changes that affect their sexual health during, and after treatment, according to a recent study published in Acta Oncologica.
Just under 700 cancer patients were included in the study. Over 60% reported having some sort of sexual dysfunction. Lymphoma and cervical, ovarian, breast, and brain cancers were among the cancer types represented. In the cancer group, the mean age was 34.5 years, while in the control group, it was 29.7 years. The majority of people in both groups were heterosexual (93% in both groups) and had a partner (85% in the cancer cohort and 81% in the control cohort).
Overall, 63% of patients with cancer and 53% of the control group reported sexual dysfunction in at least 1 of the following:
- satisfaction with sex life
- interest in sexual activity
- ability to orgasm
- pleasure with orgasm
- vaginal lubrication
- vaginal discomfort
- vulvar discomfort (clitoral or labial)
“A majority of women diagnosed with cancer before the age of 40 experience sexual dysfunction, and they do so to a significantly higher extent than young women of the general population,” the researchers concluded. “Women with gynecological and breast cancers reported more sexual dysfunction than the general population…. Our results underscore the need to routinely assess sexual health in clinical care and follow-up.”
How to manage sexual health issues
You’re not alone if you’re struggling with issues affecting your sexuality. Following a breast cancer diagnosis, sex and intimacy can be challenging for many women.
Below are ways to manage common sexual health issues:
- Learn about the side effects of treatment: hormone therapy may cause a loss of desire as well as vaginal changes that can make sex painful.
- Get help from a health care professional: many physical symptoms that affect your sex life or sexuality can be treated by your doctor.
- Talk with your partner: open communication between you and your significant other is very important in getting back your sexuality.
- Exercise: physical activity can help improve sexuality and body image and reduce anxiety and stress.
Learn more about sexual health needs after breast cancer.
Talking with your healthcare team about sexual health issues
Make a list of questions to ask your doctor or nurse as you consider the changes that treatment has made in your life. Think about including these on your list:
- What sexual issues are common?
- What sexual issues might I have during treatment?
- When will these changes occur?
- How long may these issues persist? Will they last forever?
- How can these issues be avoided, dealt with, and/or managed?
- Should I consult with a specialist to learn more?
- Are there support groups that you recommend?
For more on body image and sexuality after breast cancer, head to the American Cancer Society.
