Sexuality in breast cancer women

Abstract

Purpose: The aims of this study were to describe the characteristics of breast cancer patients who followed a group intervention program, and to know whether this program improved some features of their sexuality. Method: Sexual characteristics and problems of a group of 27 breast cancer patients who were engaged in a sexual functioning group intervention program at the Asociación Contra el Cáncer (AECC) de Barcelona were assessed before and after completing this intervention. These data were compared with those obtained in a comparison group of 39 breast cancer patients who were also assisted at the AECC, but who were not engaged in the intervention group. Results: Patients engaged in the group intervention program finished cancer treatments more than four years ago and were more satisfied with their sexual activity than women in the comparison group. Women who followed the intervention program improved sexual desire and sexual intercourses, as well as decreased pain and vaginal dryness. Conclusions: Women who showed greather interest in sexuality were those who finished cancer treatments more than four years ago. Group intervention program provided women with strategies and abilities which helped them to improve sexual desire and the quality of their sexual relationships.