Publication: Husbands’ experience of living with survivors of breast cancer who had sexual dysfunction, in Kelantan, Malaysia
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Date
2022
Authors
Wahid, Mohd Najman Abd
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Abstract
Background: Sexual dysfunction is prevalent among Malaysian women with breast cancer. Having sexual dysfunction on top of breast cancer cause consequences not only to the wives but also to their husbands. Understanding about our clients’ sexual and relationship issue may reduce negative consequences and provide better health outcome for both parties since husbands or partners act as the main supporter for our patients. Aim: To explore husbands’ view on sexuality and their experiences when dealing with the wives’ sexual dysfunction after diagnosed with breast cancer. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted within phenomenological framework among sexually active husbands of wife with sexual dysfunction after breast cancer in Kelantan. Husbands who did not have erectile dysfunction following sexual screening using International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) with the score of >11 were purposely encouraged to participate in in-depth interviews between September 2019 and March 2021. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcriptions were then transferred to analytic computer software NVivo® for data management and analysis. The thematic analysis was done by placing meaning making theory in to the consideration. Results: Four themes were developed to understand the experience of the husbands: Narrow sexual understanding, emotional sequela, intimacy adaptation, channelling sexual needs Conclusion: This study highlights the experience of husband dealing with wife sexual dysfunction after breast cancer. Husbands embraced various respond and coping strategies that emphasised the religious belief and self-distraction pivoting sex to health concern and other activities.
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Keywords
Breast cancer , consequences