مرکز منطقه ای اطلاع رساني علوم و فناوري - The Effect of Some Psychological Problems Experienced During Gynecological Cancer Treatment Upon Women’s Sexual Life

Abstract :

The Effect of Some Psychological Problems Experienced During Gynecological Cancer TreatmentUpon Women’s Sexual Life Gynecological cancer treatment procedures like hysterectomy, vulvectomy, total pelvic exenteration, chemotherapy and radiotherapy have negative effects on sex lives of women due to depression caused by concerns regarding body image, fear of cancer recurrence and post-traumatic stress disorder. Organ losses after surgical procedures cause most women to experience various negative emotions like not being as good looking or as sexually attractive as before and fear of sexual lives will be adversely affected. These women have also increased tendency for depression and anxiety. In addition, women may experience problems that may trigger low self-esteem such as hair loss, nausea, vomiting and weight changes due to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. During this time, the presence of depression also decreases sexual appetite and stimulation because of low serotonin and dopamine levels, leading to dyspareunia. Women s health nurses, who are most advantageous for providing health care to patients with gynecological cancer, should be aware of psychological and sexual problems of patients and should treat sexuality as an important part of caring process.