Treatment-related amenorrhea and sexual functioning in young breast cancer survivors

Shoshana M. Rosenberg, Rulla M. Tamimi, Shari Gelber, Kathryn J. Ruddy, Sharon L. Bober, Sandra Kereakoglow, Virginia F. Borges, Steven E. Come, Lidia Schapira, Ann H. Partridge

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

57 Scopus citations

Abstract

BACKGROUND Sexual dysfunction is a known complication of adjuvant therapy for breast cancer and an important determinant of quality of life. However, few studies have explored how treatment and other factors affect sexual functioning in young breast cancer survivors. METHODS Four hundred sixty-one premenopausal women with stage 0 through III breast cancer were surveyed an average of 1 year after diagnosis as part of a prospective cohort study of women who were aged ≤40 years at diagnosis. Sexual interest and dysfunction were assessed using the Cancer Rehabilitation Evaluation System (CARES). Mean CARES scores were compared and multiple regression models were fit to assess treatment and a range of menopausal and somatic symptoms in relation to sexual functioning. RESULTS Mean CARES sexual interest and dysfunction scores were both highest (indicating poorer functioning) among women who received chemotherapy and were amenorrheic from treatment. After accounting for menopausal and somatic symptoms, treatment-associated amenorrhea remained associated with decreased interest but was no longer an independent predictor of dysfunction. In the multivariable analysis, independent predictors of dysfunction included vaginal pain symptoms, poorer body image, and fatigue. Sexual interest was associated with vaginal pain symptoms, body image, and weight problems. CONCLUSIONS Factors associated with decreased sexual functioning in young breast cancer survivors can often be ameliorated. The current findings have implications for premenopausal women with other types of cancer who might be experiencing amenorrhea because of chemotherapy or surgery. Increased awareness and early intervention is essential to help improve sexual functioning and associated quality of life for all young cancer survivors.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)2264-2271
Number of pages8
JournalCancer
Volume120
Issue number15
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 1 2014

Keywords

  • amenorrhea
  • breast cancer
  • chemotherapy
  • premenopausal
  • sexual dysfunction

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Oncology
  • Cancer Research

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Treatment-related amenorrhea and sexual functioning in young breast cancer survivors'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this