An exploration of the effects of breast cancer on survivors' and partners' female body image and sexuality

Breast cancer strikes thousands of women in the United States every year, and previous research has shown that it has an impact on sexuality and female body image. This phenomenological study explored the experience of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare from the point of view of both members of a couple, the survivor and her partner. Six heterosexual couples agreed to be interviewed regarding their experience of breast cancer and their perceptions of its effect on their relationship. Several significant categories emerged from the data, which were analyzed intergender. Survivors' categories included a description of the discovery of her breast cancer and how others reacted, her experience of the medical treatment, the strength-based coping strategies she used, the support she received from others, her relationship with her partner, and her quality of life after breast cancer. Partners' categories included his previous experience with illness, his experience of breast cancer as an observer, and his quality of life after the breast cancer. The data revealed that the partner played a significant role in the survivor's positive outcome, especially her positive view of her sexuality and body image. The final chapter includes a discussion about the theoretical, clinical, and research implications, as well as possible directions for future research.