Strategies for Treating Sexual Health Concerns After Breast and Gynecologic Cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gynecology
• Sexual Health

Background:

• Sexual dysfunction is a common, underrecognized sequela of breast and gynecologic cancer treatment.
• Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) symptoms like vaginal dryness and dyspareunia affect many survivors.
• Addressing sexual health challenges requires a comprehensive, evidence-based approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on managing sexual dysfunction in breast and gynecologic cancer survivors.
• To synthesize findings on non-hormonal, hormonal, and pharmacological treatment options.
• To highlight the importance of multidisciplinary care for optimizing patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus (last 30 years).
• Inclusion of studies on sexual dysfunction in cancer patients/survivors, covering physiological and psychological aspects.
• Thematic analysis of findings, grouped by cancer type, treatment, and impact on sexual function.

Main Results:

• Non-hormonal options include moisturizers, lubricants, dilators, and pelvic floor therapies.
• Local hormonal therapies may benefit select patients; compounded hormones and vaginal lasers should be avoided.
• Pharmacological agents like bremelanotide and flibanserin show efficacy for low sexual desire.

Conclusions:

• Individualized, multimodal management is essential for sexual dysfunction post-cancer.
• Combining non-hormonal, hormonal, and emerging pharmacologic treatments improves sexual health and quality of life.
• Future research should explore cancer therapy effects, biological markers, and personalized care strategies.