The European Vulvovaginal Epidemiological Survey (EVES) in Italy. Impact of vulvovaginal atrophy on the quality of life and sexual function in breast cancer survivors

Abstract

The European Vulvovaginal Epidemiology Survey (EVES) sub-analysis assesses the impact of history of breast cancer (HBC) on vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA), sexual function and quality of life in a sample of postmenopausal women. Women aged 45-75 years with at least one symptom of VVA attending Italian menopause centers were included; subgroup data were described according to the absence (N = 967) or presence (N = 78) of HBC. VVA confirmed by gynecological examination and Vaginal Health Index < 15 was more prevalent in women with HBC (93.6% vs. 86.0% and 78.2% vs. 65.9%, respectively). Self-reported vaginal discharge, itching and urinary frequency were more prevalent in women without HBC compared to different HBC subgroups. Day-to-Day Impact of Vaginal Aging (DIVA) and sexual function scores were similar between women with or without HBC, but women who have completed breast cancer (BC) therapy showed lower sexual distress. Women with HBC had a higher vaginal prevalence and severity of signs of VVA, while self-reported VVA symptoms were generally less disruptive in women with HBC. These exploratory findings warrant confirmation in larger studies.