Exploring factors influencing sexual satisfaction among breast cancer survivors: The role of sexual communication.

Abstract

251 Background: Changes to sexual wellbeing after cancer treatment can impact sexual satisfaction, depending on sexual function and relationship satisfaction. While communication has been shown to be a critical component of supportive relationships, it is unclear how it impacts sexual satisfaction, particularly amongst cancer survivors. This study aims to develop a model to understand factors of sexual satisfaction amongst breast cancer (BC) survivors and explore the role of communication. Methods: Adult (18+) BC survivors were invited to participate in an online survey via Register4. Measures included: demographics, the PROMIS Global Satisfaction with Sex Life Scale, Female Sexual Function Index, Sexual Self-Disclosure Questionnaire, The Dyadic Sexual Communication Scale, Dyadic Adjustment Scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Research questions were addressed using correlations and a hierarchical Multiple Linear Regression. Results: 238 BC survivors (ave age=53) reported lower levels of sexual function within this sample when compared to other studies (FSFI M =17.96, SD =10.39). Higher levels of education (r=.17), dating or de facto relationships (r=.19) and living separately(r=.23), younger age (r=-.16) and shorter relationship length (r=-.14) were associated with higher levels of sexual satisfaction (p<.01). Education level, sexual function and sexual communication explained 78.5% of the variance in sexual satisfaction. There was a significant interaction of sexual function and sexual communication where the effect of high levels of sexual communication was increased at high levels of sexual function compared to lower levels of sexual function (β=.101, p=.005). Conclusions: Sexual function and communication play a significant role in sexual satisfaction amongst BC survivors. While many strategies to improve sexual function may be handled by women themselves, others require effective sexual communication with their partners. These results highlight the need for interventions to teach patients effective sexual communication after sexual changes due to cancer treatment.