Sexual activity and functioning after breast cancer treatment: perspectives on the importance of pleasure from a radiotherapy cohort.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Breast cancer affects millions of women and while treatment can be lifesaving, it also has numerous side effects, including those related to sexual function, which often impact the ability to experience pleasure from sex. This study aimed to understand how breast cancer survivors define sexual activity, identify important aspects, and ascertain perceived impacts of treatment on sexual activity and function, particularly related to pleasure.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with women who were breast cancer survivors at least one-year post-radiation. Priority populations were oversampled (racial/ethnic/sexual/gender minorities, those aged over 65 or under 45). The sample included 23 participants: 11 Non-Hispanic White, 8 Non-Hispanic Black, 2 Non-H

SUBMITTER: Besculides M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12570742 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature