Sexuality after breast cancer: a cross-sectional study of women’s experiences and partner perceptions in a camerounian milieu

Abstract

Background: Advances in early diagnosis and multimodal treatment have improved survival, shifting focus toward quality-of-life outcomes such as sexual health. Breast cancer and its treatments can deeply affect femininity, body image, and sexual functioning, yet sexuality remains insufficiently explored in routine oncological care, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where the partner’s perspective is rarely integrated. This study aimed to assess the impact of breast cancer on female sexuality, and explore partner perceptions.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January to May 2024 in the oncology departments of the Yaoundé Gynaeco-Obstetric and Paediatric Hospital and the Yaoundé General Hospital. Women treated for breast cancer and their partners were recruited according to predefined eligibility criteria. Female sexual function was evaluated using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), which covers desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain. Partner perceptions of sexual and relational changes were assessed with a structured questionnaire.

Results: Among 307 women, the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction was 72.3%. Sexual changes mainly involved desire, arousal, and pain. Sexual dysfunction was significantly associated with stage at diagnosis, histological grade, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, type of surgery, frequency of intercourse, and partner distress. Partners reported reduced sexual frequency, altered intimacy, emotional distress, and an unmet need for information and professional support.

Conclusion: Breast cancer has a marked negative impact on women’s sexuality and couples’ intimate relationships. Integrating sexual health assessment and partner involvement into breast cancer care is essential to improve quality of life.