Complications in the sexual activity of women after a surgical intervention for breast cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women. The most common form of treatment of this illness is a surgical intervention consisting of a partial or radical mastectomy. This article describes the psychological impacts of this experience on the frequency and occurrence of complications in the sexual activity of women and to determine the role that medical staff can play in helping patients cope with these challenges. The loss of a breast can have negative effects on a woman’s emotional state, specifically in terms of feeling feminine and the relationship with her partner. This is often reflected in a reduced quality of life. The care extended to post-mastectomy patients should routinely include an assessment of possible sexual dysfunctions and monitoring of how such dysfunctions are coped with. The PLISSIT model makes it possible to indicate how post-mastectomy patients may be effectively supported by medical staff. It serves to define a group of patients requiring specialist help. It also aims to initiate a conversation about the difficulties of functioning in this sphere, to provide general information and change existing perceptions, to give specific advice on making referrals to a specialist, and to consider these types of existing problems. The described intervention model is applicable to individual work, as well as to work with couples and groups. This method depends on the type of intervention desired and on the current psychophysical state of the patient and her readiness to start a conversation concerning sexual activity.