Sexuality after breast reconstruction post mastectomy

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Plastic Surgery
• Sexual Medicine
• Psychology

Background:

• Sexual dysfunction affects nearly half of Brazilian women, impacting relationships and mental health.
• Mastectomy and cancer diagnosis negatively affect psychological well-being and can lead to psychiatric disorders.
• Evaluating sexual function post-mastectomy is crucial for women's overall health and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare sexual function in women who underwent mastectomy alone versus those who had breast reconstruction post-mastectomy.
• To assess the impact of breast reconstruction on women's sexual health outcomes.
• To investigate factors influencing sexual function after breast cancer surgery.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive transversal study involving two groups: 17 women post-mastectomy and 19 post-breast reconstruction.
• The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire was administered to assess sexual function.
• Statistical analyses included Student's t test and Pearson's coefficient (p < 0.05 significance level).

Main Results:

• Women who underwent breast reconstruction reported significantly higher FSFI scores (22.44 ± 3.055) compared to the mastectomy-alone group (10.15 ± 2.636).
• No significant relationship was found between FSFI scores and postoperative time, income, relationship status, or age.
• Mean age did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Conclusions:

• Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is associated with improved sexual function.
• Enhanced self-esteem and body image likely contribute to better sexual health outcomes post-reconstruction.
• Positive aesthetic outcomes were reported by all patients who underwent reconstruction.