Sexuality and intimacy issues facing women with breast cancer.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To explore the sexuality and intimacy experiences facing women with breast cancer. DATA SOURCES Published articles; OVID, PsycINFO, and Florida Atlantic University databases; Web sites; and books. DATA SYNTHESIS Patient perceptions and knowledge of mastectomy and chemotherapy-induced menopause in regard to lifelong sexual experiences are lacking. Healthcare providers must institute much-needed education and open lines of communication. CONCLUSIONS The physical and psychological results of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment alter human sexuality. Breast cancer's survival rate is at an all-time high, increasing the number of people who will be living with such issues on a daily basis and shifting the focus from acute care concerns to chronic disease concerns. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING Healthcare providers should assess individual patients for potential issues they may face. By identifying problems, they can challenge health care to focus on the long-term problems associated with sexuality and intimacy issues facing patients.