Mastectomy and Sexuality

There are several studies conducted for evaluating the effects of breast cancer and mastectomy on sexuality and body perception. Although it is not commonly applied in our country, lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) is quiet commonly applied abroad and it is considered to reduce the psychological problems experienced by women with breast cancer. Breast conservation has facilitated acceptance of women’s feminine identity and body image. Mastectomy also has important effects on women’s sexual life. However, it is difficult to claim that fitting of prosthesis increases women’s sexual desire, feeling of attractiveness and sexual satisfaction. This application increases the feeling of integrity. Women’s pre-disease psychological adjustment, satisfaction with her relations, and her pre-disease sexual life characteristics are much more effective than the extent of removal of her breasts in respect of the post-operative sexual harmony and satisfaction. It has been reported that there is a loss of sexual interest and a change in sexual habits related with their breasts such as avoiding any contact with the breast and having sexual intercourse in the dark, etc. in women undergoing breast surgery. In some cases, chemotherapy and radiotherapy may also have adverse effects on sexual desire.