42 SEXUAL FUNCTION IN WOMEN AFTER PELVIC SURGERY FOR GYNAECOLOGICAL CANCER

Abstract

Introduction: Pelvic surgery for gynecological cancer can affect sexuality through a number of anatomical, physiological and psychosocial mechanisms. Studies evaluating sexual function after gynaecological cancer are characterized by heterogeneity in terms of disease stage, treatment modality, time of follow-up and used methodology. This implies that comparison between different studies is extremely difficult. Aim: We aim to prospectively examine the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions, psychological and relational functioning in women after surgical treatment for gynaecological cancer. Methods: Since 2006 we longitudinally assess sexual well-being after treatment of gynaecological cancer. Women who underwent pelvic surgery in the Gynaecological Oncology Unit completed questionnaires evaluating psychological functioning (WHO five well-being Questionnaire, BDI-II), marital satisfaction (DAS) and sexual functioning (SSFS and an in-house Specific Sexual Problems Questionnaire) before surgery and 6 months, 1 year and 2 years after treatment. Results: Preliminary results show that although psychological adjustment seems to be satisfactory, women with gynaecological cancer report a significant lower marital consensus and expression of emotions one year after treatment. Significantly more women report problems with arousal, intensity of orgasm and dyspareunia compared to the situation before surgery. Conclusion: Preliminary results of a prospective study on sexual wellbeing in gynaecological cancer patients show that although psychological adjustment seems to be satisfactory after surgical treatment, women seem to be at risk for relational and sexual dysfunctions.