T09-O-18 Young female breast cancer survivors: their sexual function and interest in sexual enhancement products and services

Abstract

Although a range of studies have documented impaired sexual function among women with breast cancer, few studies focus on younger women with breast cancer or on the strategies used by women to improve their sexual function. The purpose of this study was to use a reliable and valid measure to examine the sexual function of women who were younger than 50 at the time of their breast cancer diagnosis, and to explore their interest in sexual enhancement products. Data were collected from 115 women who were younger than 50 at the time of breast cancer diagnosis as part of a cross-sectional, paper-based survey administered at a conference for young survivors of breast cancer. The survey was anonymous and women responded to items related to their demographics, health history, breast cancer status and completed the Sexual Function Questionnaire. Participants scored significantly lower, indicating lower functioning, on most subscales of the Sexual Function Questionnaire (SFQ) and the overall measure with the exception of the masturbation subscale, on which women with breast cancer scored significantly higher. Most participants indicated moderate or strong interest in sexual enhancement products (e.g., lubricants, vibrators) and comfort purchasing sexual enhancement products through various venues. Sex therapists and other sexual health professionals (e.g., educators, healthcare providers) might consider collaborations with entities of the adult retail industry to provide survivors with information about sexual enhancement products and their therapeutic potential.