Abstract
The negative effects of gynecologic cancer on women's health is multidimensional. Sexual problems arising after chemotherapy are decreased interest and vaginal lubrication, lack of orgasm and dyspareunia and sense of reduction in sexual attractiveness in general. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes that patients who receive chemotherapy for a gynecologic oncology disorder experience in their sexual functions. A descriptive/cross-sectional and qualitative study was performed. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used in order to collect data on sexual capacity. The quantitative data obtained were evaluated with frequency and percentage calculations while content analysis was performed for the qualitative data. All of the information related to sexuality was provided by the physician. Chemotherapy treatment affected sexuality negatively in 55.9%. Since receiving the diagnosis, 52.9% of women had experienced no sexual intercourse at all. Those who had an FSFI score of 30 and below made up 75% of the women. After the content analysis of data obtained during in in-depth interviewing, we focused on three main themes: desire for sexual intercourse, problems experienced during sexual intercourse, and coping with problems. An integrated system where sexual problems can be handled professionally should be present during gynecological cancer treatment.
Highlights
Reproductive organs are one of the determinants of the “female” identity and play an important role in shaping a woman’s body image and self-esteem
After the content analysis of data obtained during in in-depth interviewing, we focused on three main themes: desire for sexual intercourse, problems experienced during sexual intercourse, and coping with problems
An integrated system where sexual problems can be handled professionally should be present during gynecological cancer treatment
Summary
Reproductive organs are one of the determinants of the “female” identity and play an important role in shaping a woman’s body image and self-esteem. Corney et al (1993), report decreased vaginal lubrication, sexual desire, decreased ability to orgasm, and dyspareunia as common problems in women who have undergone radical hysterectomy and vulvectomy, and that these problems continue as chronic conditions (Corney et al, 1993). Both new patients and survivors are under the risk of a wide range of sequel namely sexual dysfunction, pain, premature menopause, fatigue and impaired physical functioning (Goker et al, 2011). Conclusions: An integrated system where sexual problems can be handled professionally should be present during gynecological cancer treatment
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