International Research Journal of Oncology

Lived Experiences of Sexuality among Women Undergoing Breast Cancer Treatment at a Major Cancer Center in Ghana

Emelia Osei Boakye *

Directorate of Oncology, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana and Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives, Ghana.

Rasheed Ofosu-Poku

Directorate of Family Medicine, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.

Ishmael Kyei

School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.

Lydia Aziato

University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana.

Emmanuel Amankwaa Frempong

Sweden Ghana Medical Center, Accra, Ghana.

Mavis Bobie Ansah

Directorate of Oncology, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

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Abstract

Aim: This study explored the sexuality-related lived experiences of women diagnosed with breast cancer during multimodal breast cancer treatment.

Study Design: Qualitative exploratory descriptive design.

Place and Duration of Study: Participants were recruited from the Oncology Department of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana from March to May 2018.

Methodology: A purposive sampling was used and data was saturated with 10 participants. Data was analysed by thematic analysis.

Findings: Four (4) main themes and 12 subthemes were identified. Breast cancer treatment resulted in reduced sexual desire and strength for sexual intercourse, loss of hair, skin color, weight, breast and self-esteem, as well as loss of money and income on account of high cost of treatment and loss of job.

Conclusion: Addressing sexuality needs of people living with breast cancer is relevant to improving their quality of life.

Keywords: Sexuality, breast cancer, body image, palliative care, cancer treatment, sexuality needs

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