Factors affecting women's sexual life after oncological treatment of breast cancer

Abstract

Introduction and purpose: Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor among Polish women. However, with the development of medicine, new methods of treating and detecting breast cancer are accessible. In consequence, there is a significant decrease in mortality and an increase in the number of detected cases. Therefore, the needs and difficulties faced by women with breast cancer, including those related to their sexuality, require a different approach. This paper aims to present the impact of breast cancer treatment on women's sexuality based on a review of the available literature.
 Description of the state of knowledge: There are many methods of treating breast cancer, but mastectomy, one of the most radical therapies, is performed in almost half of the patients. There is a high percentage of psychological complications associated with this procedure, among others, since female breasts are perceived as attributes of femininity. Women diagnosed with breast cancer face concerns about self-esteem and body image. Breast cancer has a notable impact on sexuality, and cancer diagnosis and oncological cancer treatment are associated with several physical and psychosocial uncertainties. The lack of a native breast can cause a sense of imperfection, shame, and fear of rejection by the partner. 
 Summary: Health professionals should concentrate on the sexual health of women with breast cancer because it is frequently overlooked and assigned less priority. The return of sexual satisfaction and acceptance of the new body appearance should be a component of successful breast cancer treatment.