Factors Influencing Sexual Satisfaction in Patients with Breast Cancer Participating in a Support Group and Non Support Group

Abstract

Purpose: This study was to identify the influence of sexual behavior, body image, social support, and other characteristics on sexual satisfaction in patients with breast cancer according to their participation in a support group. Method: Data was collected by self-report questionnaires. Participants included 63 patients attending a support group and 76 patients who did not participate in the support group. The questionnaire sections consisted of sexual satisfaction, sexual behavior, body image, social support and information on general characteristics, disease-related characteristics, and sexual life-related characteristics. Result: There was no statistically significant difference in sexual behavior, body image and sexual satisfaction between the two groups. Social support scores were significantly higher in the support group. Sexual satisfaction was positively related with sexual behavior, post-op change of sexual intercourse frequency, body image, and patient's education level, and negatively related to age in the support group. Sexual satisfaction was positively related with sexual behavior, social support and body image in the non support group. Sexual behavior is predictable 37.0% of sexual satisfaction in the support group. Sexual behavior, body image, and social support is predictable for 38.0% of the sexual satisfaction in non support group participants. Conclusion: Implications point to the need for the development and implementation of programs that focus specifically on sexual life issues for breast cancer patients, as well as further research measuring the effects of such intervention programs. Continuous education and counseling through participation in support groups can contribute to promote and affirm a healthy sexual life for patients with breast cancer.