Abstract
Introduction and Background: According to the latest data from the World Health Organization on breast cancer (BC) in July 2023, there were a total of 2.3 million women diagnosed with BC each year and an annual average of 650,000 BC-related deaths globally. The challenge is more pronounced in developing regions and countries such as the Middle East, where BC is a significant public health threat, with the incidence rate increasing over the last ten years and women often diagnosed in late stages, with mastectomy their only treatment option. Previous studies from various countries have found that the sexual health of women deteriorates substantially after mastectomy. However, there is a lack of research addressing Arabic women’s sexual health experiences of BC and mastectomy; this is likely related to the cultural, religious and social beliefs of Arabic society, which considers discussion surrounding sexual health as taboo.Aim and Objectives: The overall study aim is to explore the sexual health experiences of Arabic women who have had a mastectomy due to BC. The study is guided by the following objectives: (i) To explore Arabic women’s experiences of being diagnosed with BC, (ii) To explore experiences of Arabic women after mastectomy, and (iii) To examine how mastectomy affects the sexual health of Arabic women.
Methodology and Methods: This research was underpinned by social constructivism, feminist perspectives and storytelling. Arabic women over 18 years of age who had survived at least one year after a mastectomy were recruited via social media posts (Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter), BC support groups and Arabic community groups. The posts contained a recruitment flyer and a link to a short survey that collected demographic data. Forty women completed the short survey and of these women, 22 women agreed to participate in semi-structured interviews. Women’s narratives elicited in the interviews were thematically analysed using Braun and Clarke’s framework.
Findings: The research findings underscored the profound sexual health challenges faced by Arabic women due to a myriad of distinct emotional upheavals triggered by a breast cancer diagnosis. These emotions encompass distress, shock, fear and confusion, which many women concealed from their families and spouses to project an image of unwavering strength. Decisions about their treatment were frequently entrusted to medical professionals and spouses, with women often having limited autonomy in this regard. While some spousal support was evident, it sometimes failed to thoroughly meet these women’s expectations and needs. Findings from the study illuminated the profound ramifications of mastectomy procedures for xi women, particularly the adverse effects on body image, which, in turn, detrimentally impacted their self-esteem. Additionally, the consequences of mastectomy and subsequent treatments led to a decrease in sexual desire and discomfort during sexual intercourse. Nevertheless, the majority of participants reported engaging in sexual, intercourse albeit as a duty to their spouses rather than deriving pleasure from it. Participants reported a lack of information and education offered by health professionals regarding the potential effects of mastectomy on their sexual health.
| Date of Award | 2024 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
|
| Supervisor | Kath Peters (Supervisor) |