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Sexual dysfunction in young women with breast cancer
H Kedde1, H B M van de Wiel, W C M Weijmar Schultz
1Rutgers WPF, Utrecht, Netherlands. h.kedde@rutgerswpf.nl
Summary
Young women with breast cancer experience high rates of sexual dysfunction, which persists even after treatment. Health professionals should initiate discussions about sexual health to ensure women receive necessary care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Sexual Medicine
- Women's Health
Background:
- Sexual dysfunction is a common yet often overlooked side effect of breast cancer treatment in young women.
- Limited data exists on the prevalence and specific types of sexual dysfunction experienced by this demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in young women (≤45 years) with breast cancer in the Netherlands.
- To assess the relationship between sexual dysfunction, treatment modalities, and treatment-related complaints.
- To evaluate women's interest in receiving care for sexual dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- An internet-based questionnaire was used to collect data on sexual functioning.
- Participants were women diagnosed with breast cancer within the last 6 years and aged 45 or younger.
- Results were compared to a representative sample of the general Dutch population.
Main Results:
- Sexual dysfunction was prevalent in 64% of women undergoing treatment and 45% of those who completed treatment.
- Compared to the general population, young women with breast cancer showed higher rates of all assessed sexual dysfunctions.
- Early menopause, hormone therapy, and radical mastectomy were linked to specific long-term sexual dysfunctions, including genital arousal disorder, orgasmic disorder, and dyspareunia.
Conclusions:
- Sexual dysfunctions are highly prevalent in young women with breast cancer, with persistent issues even post-treatment.
- Health professionals should take the initiative to discuss sexual health concerns with patients.
- Integrating sexuality into breast cancer treatment guidelines is crucial to ensure adequate patient care.
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