Abstract
BackgroundSexual and reproductive health problems significantly decrease quality of life in survivors of breast cancer. The best approach is to provide services according to evidence-based guidelines developed based on their practical context. Here, we aim to develop and validate a guideline on the sexual and reproductive health of breast cancer survivors in Iran.MethodsThe guideline will be developed and validated using an exploratory sequential mixed methods approach in three phases: (1) describing sexual and reproductive health needs of survivors of breast cancer in Iran and the health services they receive in this regard, (2) performing a systematic review of existing guidelines, resources, and documents on the sexual and reproductive health of breast cancer survivors worldwide, and (3) developing and validating a guideline on the sexual and reproductive health of women who survived breast cancer in Iran based on the results of phases 1 and 2 through multiple steps.DiscussionA comprehensive and practical guideline on the sexual and reproductive health of breast cancer survivors in Iran will be developed which will be compatible with their specific needs and culture, considering the limited resources available. This guideline can significantly improve the quality of life in breast cancer survivors in Iran. In addition, the approach we will use here can be utilized to develop guidelines on sexual and reproductive health of female cancer survivors in general.
Highlights
Sexual and reproductive health problems significantly decrease quality of life in survivors of breast cancer
Aim Here, we aim to develop and validate a comprehensive guideline for sexual and reproductive health of breast cancer survivors in Iran, taking into account local and cultural needs and circumstances
We will identify which services are available in Iran, and whether breast cancer survivors have any difficulties accessing these services
Summary
Sexual and reproductive health problems significantly decrease quality of life in survivors of breast cancer. We aim to develop and validate a guideline on the sexual and reproductive health of breast cancer survivors in Iran. Breast cancer survivors experience sexual and reproductive health problems [4, 6]. A study in Iran showed that sexual dysfunction is more common in breast cancer survivors than in healthy women. They experience dyspareunia and problems in sexual desire, vaginal lubrication, arousal, and orgasm [8]. Both patients and therapists are hesitant to talk about sexual problems due to embarrassment and lack of privacy, time, or required skills [10, 11]
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