Sexual dysfunction in women with breast cancer: The role of community midwives in early detection

Abstract

In recent years, many studies have shown that breast cancer causes significant changes in women’s sexuality. Breast cancer is a threat to female sexuality due to the symbolism of the breast in female sexuality, sexual pleasure, and femininity of women1,2. Women who underwent mastectomy developed depression, body image disorder, and sexual dysfunction2, which negatively affected their self-perception3. The physical and emotional effects of cancer on women and their treatment affect their sexuality. Depression, pain, vaginal dryness and sleep disturbance are factors that contribute to the onset of sexual dysfunction1,4