Sweet and Spicy Navigating the Rollercoaster of Sexual Health for Women with Breast Cancer

Numerous Women Affected by Breast Cancer Face Challenges with Sexual Health

The Hidden Burden: Breast Cancer and Sexual Health

For many women battling breast cancer, the struggle with sexual issues becomes an additional hidden burden that they have to endure. It turns out that discussing these intimate issues with doctors is not something most patients feel comfortable doing. Instead, they seek refuge in online patient-support forums, where they can find advice and support from others who have been through similar experiences.

In a new study conducted by researchers led by Christiana von Hippel from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, it was discovered that three-quarters of breast cancer patients admitted to experiencing some form of sexual dysfunction. The most common issues reported were vaginal dryness and pain during penetration.

Rather than relying on physicians for guidance, these resourceful women have taken matters into their own hands. They have become pioneers, seeking, innovating, and sharing solutions amongst themselves. Von Hippel’s team conducted a survey of 501 members of the popular Breastcancer.org online forum community, and the results were eye-opening.

Seventy percent of the participants stated that they continued to engage in sexual activity even after their diagnosis. Of these respondents, about two-thirds identified as heterosexual and two-thirds were in a partnership. Interestingly, 47 percent reported being very or extremely satisfied with their sex lives prior to their cancer treatment. However, after diagnosis, 44 percent experienced a significant decline in their sexual satisfaction.

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The most commonly cited issues were vaginal dryness and pain during penetration. Surprisingly, 57 percent of the participants admitted to never discussing the sexual side effects of cancer treatment with their physicians. Instead, they turned to their peers or conducted independent research for answers.

The solutions they found ranged from using coconut oil as a lubricant during sex to exploring different positions. Some even suggested masturbation and watching erotica as ways to enhance sexual arousal. The researchers coined this phenomenon as “emotional coping,” emphasizing the importance of a shift in mindset when it comes to sex.

However, not all women found these approaches helpful. The Boston research team highlights the need for physicians to initiate conversations about sexual health. It is vital for medical professionals to address these concerns and provide guidance to ensure that breast cancer patients receive comprehensive care.

The study, published on November 15 in the medical journal PLOS ONE, sheds light on the importance of addressing sexual health issues in breast cancer patients. By acknowledging and discussing these concerns, healthcare providers can better support their patients in maintaining a fulfilling sex life throughout their cancer journey.

For more information about the side effects of cancer treatment, visit the American Cancer Society.

Original Source: PLOS ONE, news release, Nov. 15, 2023

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