The Benefit of a Couple-Based Intervention Among Women in Active Cancer Treatment on Sexual Concerns: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

BACKGROUND

Sexuality-related problems are common in women with cancer, threatening their sexual well-being and intimate relationships. Evidence-based interventions addressing the full range of sexual concerns among women in active cancer treatment are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefits of a novel couple-based intervention focusing on sexual concerns among women undergoing cancer treatment, including a subgroup of women with breast cancer. A secondary aim was to assess changes in illness intrusiveness in daily life.

METHODS

A quasi-experimental single-group pre-post follow-up design was used. The study was initially planned as a randomized controlled trial with waitlist control group receiving delayed intervention. However, substantial differences were observed in clinical and demographic variables between the treatment group and control group, resulting in using a single-group pre-post follow-up design. The intervention consists of 3 advanced nurse-led, face-to-face couple-based sessions supported by access to web-based information.

RESULTS

Women in active cancer treatment participated in the study (n = 60) together with their partners (n = 60). The main results showed significant differences between time points in the outcome measures for concerns related to the sexual adverse effects of cancer treatment (T1 vs T2, and T2 vs T3), sexual concerns related to the women's partners (T1 vs T2), and for concerns related to communication with healthcare providers about sexuality-related issues (T1 vs T2). No significant changes were found over time with respect to illness interference on the intimacy or instrumental subscales.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrated that the approach of 3 couple-based therapeutic conversations is beneficial in reducing sexual concerns among women in active cancer treatment.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Advanced nurse practitioners can develop and offer brief psychoeducational support that is helpful in reducing sexual concerns among women in active cancer treatment.