Breast Cancer and Sexuality
The Breast JournalPublished 31 January 2008Open access
Lorraine Sheppard, Sally Ely
Citations147
SJR quartileQ2
SJR score0.45
SNIP0.67
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TL;DR
Breast cancer affects a woman’s body image and feelings of sexuality and more support in relation to sexuality and body image could improve relationships by identifying and clarifying perceptions, and therefore the quality of life.
Abstract
Breast cancer affects a woman's body image and feelings of sexuality. Little is known about the perceptions of spouses to the sensitive topics of sexuality and body image. A qualitative inquiry was undertaken using in-depth interviews. A diagnosis of breast cancer brought some relationships closer. Mastectomy by disturbing body image did obliterate sexual relationships for a significant period of time. Women often felt (wrongly) that their partner would be repulsed by changes. More support in relation to sexuality and body image could improve relationships by identifying and clarifying perceptions, and therefore the quality of life.
Keywords
Social SciencesMedicine
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