Evaluation of Sexual Function in Breast Cancer Survivors Using Female Sexual Function Index: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objectives: Breast cancer is known as one of the most common women’s neoplasms and the Diagnosis and Treatment of cancer has a great effect on women’s sexual function. Considering the high survival rates of breast cancer, attention to sexual function is very important as a domain in the quality of life. Therefore, this research aimed to review studies on women’s sexual function using the female sexual function index (FSFI). Materials and Methods: To this end, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest databases were considered and Iranian studies on sexual function in breast cancer, which were in Persian or English and used the FSFI tool, were selected in this regard. In addition, these studies were methodologically evaluated and the keywords included "breast cancer" and "sexual function", along with their synonyms. Results: A total of 128 studies were identified out of which 5 cases having the inclusion criteria were selected after reviewing the title, abstract, and quality assessment. The rate of sexual dysfunction in the survivors of breast cancer varied between 52.5% and 100%. Based on the domains of FSFI, the lack of desire and lubrication dysfunction were the most common disorders while satisfaction with sexual life obtained the highest score. Conclusions: Overall, it is necessary to systemically measure sexual dysfunction after cancer diagnosis and treatment employing an appropriate tool. Finally, effective interventions are required to improve sexual function.