Coping strategies for sexual problems and sexual dysfunction amongst Malay women with breast cancer. A qualitative study

Ya, Siti Nuryati Che and Muhamad, Rosediani and Zain, Norhasmah Mohd and Zakaria, Rosnani and Ishak, Azlina and Hassan, Intan Idiana and Ab Hadi, Imisairi and Yahya, Maya Mazuwin and Low, Wah Yun and Liamputtong, Pranee (2021) Coping strategies for sexual problems and sexual dysfunction amongst Malay women with breast cancer. A qualitative study. Sexual Medicine, 9 (3). ISSN 2050-1161, DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100336.

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Abstract

Introduction: Women' sexuality becomes complex after breast cancer diagnosis and sexual health is highly neglected in the management of the illness. Aims: To explore the coping and strategies to overcome sexuality problems and sexual dysfunction among women with breast cancer. Material and Methods: Using the in-depth and photo-elicitation interview methods, this qualitative study following phenomenological analysis was conducted on fourteen married female respondents with breast cancer and had the positive result for female sexual dysfunction (FSD) screened by Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6 items) from Kelantan, Malaysia. The interviews data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and managed in analytic computer software NVivo11 Pro. The transcriptions were analyzed using thematic analysis by referring to the meaning-making theory. Main Outcome Measures: We identified overlapping themes of coping and strategies among women with breast cancer to overcome sexual problems and sexual dysfunction which correspond with meaning-making theory. Results: Three themes have emerged. Women with breast cancer that developed sexuality problem and sexual dysfunction strived to accept the illness using religious belief and conform by altering sexual practices. These individuals positively look for a solution by seeking formal healthcare advice, modify their physical appearance, active discussion with the husband and support from other survivors. A few of them passively struggle with the subject by averting the intimacy and receptive toward polygamy. Conclusion: This study highlighted the various mechanisms that emphasized the pivotal role of religious belief and relationship context as key factors in the coping strategies among women with breast cancer in Malaysia. The finding may not be generalized to other countries. Copyright (C) 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of the International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Item Type: Article
Funders: USM Research University Individual Grant [1001/PPSP/8012284], Tabung Insentif Pelajar Siswazah [TIPP 2018]
Uncontrolled Keywords: Breast Cancer; Mental Health; Qualitative; Sexual Dysfunction; Sexual Health
Subjects: R Medicine > RC Internal medicine
Divisions: Faculty of Medicine
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic & International) Office > Asia-Europe Institute
Depositing User: Ms Zaharah Ramly
Date Deposited: 09 Jun 2022 03:00
Last Modified: 09 Jun 2022 03:00
URI: http://eprints.um.edu.my/id/eprint/34404

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