Endocrine therapy and its effect on sexual function.

Abstract

KEY POINTS Breast cancer and its treatment, especially endocrine therapy, can cause sexual dysfunction, which is often multifactorial in nature with both a physical and mental component. Clinicians should discuss sexual health with all women with breast cancer and survivors of the disease. Women with breast cancer often experience premature menopause, which causes greater intensity and duration of symptoms than women undergoing natural menopause. Hot flashes, vaginal dryness, urogenital atrophy, dyspareunia, decreased libido, and changes in sexual response have been shown to negatively affect quality of life, compliance with medication, and overall outcome. Treatment options for sexual dysfunction in women with breast cancer depend on the etiology of the problem and concomitant medical conditions. Some possible treatments include: lubricants, moisturizers, counseling, sex therapy, altering contributing medications, physical therapy for pelvic floor disorders, and mechanical devices/vibrators.