# Understanding Patients’ Preferences for Discussing Sexuality After Surgery—A Qualitative Study of Sexuality and Body Image in Women with Ovarian Cancer

## TL;DR

This study explores how ovarian cancer treatments affect women's sexuality and body image, highlighting the need for better communication and support from healthcare professionals.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the unmet needs of ovarian cancer patients regarding sexual health and the role of healthcare professionals in addressing these issues.

## Key findings

- Participants experienced significant changes in sexuality and body image during their cancer journey.
- There is a clear need for timely and sensitive discussions about sexual health in clinical care.
- Sexuality is a key component of well-being and recovery for women with ovarian cancer.

## Abstract

Sexuality is still insufficiently addressed in medical settings, in science, and in clinical practice. Ovarian cancer patients seem to be disadvantaged compared to other patient groups, as multivisceral surgical and oncological interventions directly and indirectly affect sexual organs and can have a profound impact on sexual health and quality of life. In this qualitative study, we explored the experiences of twelve women with ovarian cancer to understand how operative as well as conservative interventions (chemotherapy, targeted therapies, cancer care) can affect sexuality and body image, and what role medical professionals may play in supporting patients during this process. We anchor our findings in the importance of timely dialogue with healthcare professionals, the inclusion of partners and/or social support systems, and opportunities for exchange, in order to raise awareness. Regardless of age or life stage, all interview partners described various aspects of their sexuality as important components of recovery and of redefining intimacy in their lives.

Background: Aspects of sexuality are often deprioritized or overlooked during the treatment of women with ovarian cancer, despite the profound physical and psychosocial impact of surgical and oncological therapies. This study aimed to explore experiences of sexuality and body image in women with ovarian cancer during the peri- and postoperative period. Methods: This qualitative exploratory study was based on twelve semi-structured, in-depth interviews with women aged ≥18 years diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Interviews were conducted in person or by telephone, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis according to Kuckartz with MAXQDA 24.11. Results: Participants described substantial changes in sexuality and body image throughout their disease trajectory. Participants emphasized a lack of attention to sexual health and well-being in ovarian cancer care and expressed a need for timely and sensitive dialogue with medical professionals, social support systems, and with themselves regarding sexuality and intimacy. Conclusions: Sexuality emerged as a key factor for overall well-being and empowerment in women with ovarian cancer, regardless of age or relationship status. The findings suggest that sexuality-related concerns are oftentimes overlooked in clinical care and may negatively influence recovery. Greater awareness and a holistic, patient-centered perspective may help support sexual health and well-being throughout the disease trajectory.