Sexual function, sexual activity, and quality of life in women with ovarian and endometrial cancer.

Abstract

5051 Background: Gynecological cancer (GC) is generally assumed to have an impact on sexual function and activity. Although there are several studies addressing the issue, case control studies are currently limited. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional investigation of sexual function and activity utilizing the sexual activity questionnaire, the female sexual function index, and parts of the EORTC QLQ C30. Patients with gynecological cancer (GC) like ovarian and endometrial cancer were compared with a control group (C) of non-cancer patients. Inclusion of GC was only allowed if treatment was completed ≥12 months previously and patients were disease-free. Results: The questionnaires were sent out to 727 women (335 x GC and 392 x C), 22.8% of which responded. Response rates in both groups were equivalent (79 pts with GC [23.6%] and 87 control subjects [22.2%]). Median age was 57 years (C) and 62 years (GC), respectively (p=0.237). 51.5% (C) and 59.5% (GC) were not sexually active, mainly owing to lack of a partner (37%) or lack of interest (21%) in controls and lack of interest (40%, p<0.05), self-reported physical problems (31.9%, p<0.05), and physical problems of the partner (21%, p<0.05). There were significant differences between both groups in the SAQ discomfort score (p<0.05). We did not observe significant differences in quality of life or other scores regarding sexuality. Conclusions: About half of the women in both groups were not sexually active. However, reasons for non-activity differ. Quality of sexuality tends to be impaired in GC patients, but this seems not to influence quality of life. A shift of priority caused by substantial anxiety regarding cancer specific survival might explain our findings.

Quality of life in ovarian cancer patients receiving chemotherapy—preliminary study

“…Studies by Harter et al [32] clearly show disturbances in cancer women's sexual functioning yet, interestingly, the authors did not observe the influence of sexual disorders on the quality of life, explaining that this is due to the women's change of priorities related to the concern for their lives and fear of recurrence. In addition, women who underwent a surgical treatment can experience a disturbed sense of womanhood and themselves, but first and foremost the inability to have a child [20].…”