Diversity of sexual activity and correlates among women with gynecological cancer

Abstract

Objective: Sexual dysfunction has been reported in women following treatment for gynecological cancer. However, the actual sexual activities adopted by these women are not well understood. The aims of this study were to (1) explore a relatively new concept, diversity of sexual activities (DSA), and (2) identify factors associated with DSA in women with gynecological cancer.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 136 Taiwanese long-term partnered women with gynecologic cancer treated in a large medical center. DSA was measured with the Diversity of Sexual Activities Scale, which assesses the number of sexual activities adopted in the past 6 months. Covariates included sexual knowledge and sexual attitudes, perceived changes in relationships of intimacy since treatment, and demographic and clinical factors.

Results: The mean age of participants was 51.2 years (SD = 8.66); cancer diagnoses were cervical (50.7%), endometrial (31.6%), and ovarian (17.6%). The mean number of sexual activities was 2.88 (SD = 2.63); 29.4% of participants had no physical contact with their partners after treatment. The participants reported a significantly decreased overall satisfaction toward adopted sexual activities after cancer treatment. Lower DSA was associated with older age and receiving a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Conclusions: Cancer treatment has a significant impact on sexual activity in women with gynecological cancer. Around 30% of participants reported not having any physical contact with their partners since receiving cancer treatment. Sexual rehabilitation counseling that emphasizes alternative forms of sexual expression is suggested.

Keywords: Diversity of sexual activities; Gynecological cancer; Sexuality.