Open AccessBreast Cancer and Sexuality
Author(s) -
Sheppard Lorraine A.,
Ely Sally
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
the breast journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.533
H-Index - 72
eISSN - 1524-4741
pISSN - 1075-122X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1524-4741.2007.00550.x
Subject(s) - human sexuality , medicine , feeling , breast cancer , perception , qualitative research , cancer , gynecology , gender studies , social psychology , psychology , social science , neuroscience , sociology
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.