Effectiveness of Application of PLISSIT Counseling Model on Sexuality for Breast Cancer's Women Undergoing Treatment

Background: A breast cancer's diagnosis and treatment can bring changes related to women’s body image and sexuality, which can have a devastating impact on intimate relationships and sexuality. The study aim to examine the effectiveness of PLISSIT Counseling Model on female sexuality, body image and couple satisfaction for breast cancer women undergoing treatment. Subjects &methods a quasi-experimental design was used. The study was conducted at Out-patient Oncology Institute, Menoufia University-Egypt. A purposive sample of 66 women with breast cancer was included. Four tools were used to collect data., a structured interviewing questionnaire, body image scale, female sexual function index (FSDI), the revised dyadic adjustment scale. Results. A significant relationship was found between treatment side effects pre and post intervention regarding nausea & vomiting, diarrhea and pain. The mean score of body image, couple satisfaction and sexual dysfunction were improved after application of PLISST counseling model. Conclusion: application of PLISSIT model was effective in enhancing sexual functioning, body image and couple satisfaction for breast cancer women under treatment regimen. Recommendation: Adopting PLISSIT sexual counseling model in addressing sexual dysfunction in a cancer treatment institutions. Applying the evidence –based nursing interventions to address and manage the effects of breast cancer on sexuality.