Sexuality among Tunisian women treated for breast cancer
Type de matériel :
31
Introduction: The question of sexuality is becoming increasingly important in the context of breast cancer. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate sexual function in a population of women being treated for breast cancer and to determine the factors associated with sexual dysfunction. Method: A cross-sectional study involving fifty patients was carried out among women undergoing treatment for breast cancer within the department of medical oncology at the University Hospital of Gabes, Tunisia. A questionnaire, covering socio-demographic, clinical, and therapeutic data, as well as information on marital status and sexual activity, was used in combination with two scales: the Female Sexual Function Index and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale. Results: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in this population was 73.3 percent. A decrease in sexual desire and dyspareunia was found in all patients. Decreased sexual excitement, insufficient lubrication, and difficulty in reaching orgasm were noted in 86 percent, 82 percent, and 76 percent of women, respectively. A total of 66 percent of our patients felt dissatisfied with their sexuality. The analytical study revealed that the factors associated with sexual dysfunction included medical and surgical history, the existence of infertility, the use of means of contraception, the presence of an intrauterine device, and hormone therapy. Anxiety was also found to be significantly associated with the presence of sexual issues, absence of desire, and lack of lubrication. Conclusion. Our study revealed frequent sexual dysfunction among women with breast cancer. Sexual dysfunction was commonly linked to the condition, adverse effects of therapies, and the psychological impact of cancer.
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