breastcancer and sexuality

The goal of this research is to have a better view on sexual problems during or after treatment of breast cancer, also to find oncological safe treatments for sexual problems related to vaginal atrophy caused by breast cancer treatment. The results of part 1 of my research may affect the course of part 2, when the needs of our patients are different than expected. PART 1 1A: psychosocial research Using validated questionaires after diagnosis of breast cancer, during treatment and after treatment, the sexual wellbeing of our patients will be documented. Every patient can be included, those with relationships, hetero/homosexual, singles. A control group with patients treated for a benign breast lesion or undergoing profylactic breast surgery of the breast will be made to evaluate the impact of breast surgery versus the impact of breast cancer on sexuality. With a longitudinal qualitative analysis we want to have a better view on our patients sexual problems. 1B: Mapping physical problems Sometimes after (neo-)adjuvant treatment for breast cancer, menopause is induced with new complaints of vaginal atrophy. By investigating vaginal hydratation, pH, elasticity and flora vaginal changes can be mapped. PART 2 2: introducing oncological safe possibilities for vaginal atrophy Current treatment for vaginal atrophy is application of a local hydratation. In this part of our research we want to further investigate safety and effect of different therapeutic options. Also we want to define the effects of vaginal lasertherapy. Also safety of application of a low dose DHEA or estradiol in breast cancer patients.