SEXUAL HEALTH CHALLENGES AMONG MARRIED WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER: A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATORY STUDY IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background:
Breast cancer and its treatment significantly affect women’s sexual health and intimate relationships. In sociocultural contexts such as Pakistan, sexuality remains a sensitive topic, often resulting in unmet informational and psychosocial needs.

Objective:
To explore sexual health challenges and concerns among married women undergoing breast cancer treatment in a tertiary care setting in Pakistan.

Method:
A descriptive qualitative study was conducted using in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 20 women who had completed breast cancer treatment. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, translated into English, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results:
Three major themes emerged: (1) Treatment-induced sexual health difficulties, (2) Communication gaps and informational needs, and (3) Relationship dynamics and coping mechanisms. Participants reported physical discomfort, altered body image, and emotional distress affecting intimacy. Cultural taboos and a lack of communication with healthcare providers contributed to misinformation and unmet needs. Spousal support and religious coping played a key role in adaptation.

Conclusion:
Breast cancer treatment profoundly impacts sexual health and relationships. Integrating culturally sensitive, couple-centered sexual health education into oncology care is essential to improve survivors’ quality of life.