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Revista Portuguesa de Medicina Geral e Familiar

versão impressa ISSN 2182-5173

Resumo

MORGADO, Maria Beatriz. Sexual problems in women with breast cancer and gynaecological cancer: a narrative review. Rev Port Med Geral Fam [online]. 2021, vol.37, n.4, pp.314-328.  Epub 31-Ago-2021. ISSN 2182-5173.  https://doi.org/10.32385/rpmgf.v37i4.12888.

Objectives:

It is estimated that half of the women with breast cancer or gynecological cancer have sexual problems. However, only a minority receive medical advice in this area. This narrative review aims to describe the main sexual problems of women with this typology of neoplasia and to identify strategies to address and treat them.

Methods:

A literature search of the PubMed database using the MeSH terms: ‘Sexuality’, ‘Neoplasms’, ‘Female’ and ‘Women’ has been performed. Articles and books dated from 1998 to 2020 were used.

Results:

Breast cancer affects sexual health since diagnosis, due to psychological suffering. Additionally, it is important to consider the impact of the treatment. The surgery alters self-image, breast sensitivity, and mobility. Radiotherapy alters the properties of the tissues. Chemotherapy has psychological and physical effects with direct and indirect impacts on sexuality. Hormonal therapy leads to urogenital atrophy and vasomotor symptoms. On the other hand, most women with gynaecological cancer also experience sexual dysfunction secondary to therapy. Recent treatments such as brachytherapy, modified nerve-sparing techniques, and reconstructive surgery have contributed to a decrease in morbidity associated with cancer treatment. There is a growing awareness of the importance of sexual health in cancer patients. The doctor should inform patients about the possible impact of the disease and its treatment on their sexuality. There are validated questionnaires and models that facilitate communication. It is also the clinicians’ responsibility to control the symptoms of sexual dysfunction associated with oncological therapy, favouring drugs with a neutral or positive impact on sexuality.

Conclusion:

Any physician should be aware of sexual dysfunction associated with cancer and its treatment, being able to identify sexual dysfunctions, and adapt the therapeutic plan according to the cancer care continuum.

Palavras-chave : Sexuality; Oncology; Neoplasia; Women.

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