The Impact of Vulvar Cancer on Psychosocial and Sexual Functioning: A Literature Review

Cancers

Mariagrazia Merola¹  Sara Carletto¹  Francesca Malandrone²  Luca Ostacoli²  Niccolò Gallio³  Federica Bevilacqua³  Chiara Benedetto³ 

[1] Clinical Psychology Service, City of Health and Science, 10126 Torino, Italy;Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Torino, Italy;Gynaecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Torino, City of Health and Science, 10126 Torino, Italy;

关键词: vulvar cancer;    anxiety;    depression;    distress;    sexual functioning;    quality of life;   

DOI  :  10.3390/cancers14010063

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Women who are diagnosed and treated for vulvar cancer are at higher risk of psychological distress, sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction with partner relationships. The aim of this article is to provide a review of the psychological, relational and sexual issues experienced by women with vulvar cancer in order to highlight the importance of this issue and improve the quality of care offered to these patients. A review of the literature was performed using PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library. The results are presented as a narrative synthesis and highlight the massive impact of vulvar cancer: depressive and anxiety symptoms were more frequent in these women, and vulvar cancer may have a negative effect on sexuality from a physical, psychological and behavioural point of view. Factors that may negatively affect these women’s lives are shame, insecurity or difficulties in self-care and daily activities. This review highlights the psychosocial and psychosexual issues faced by women diagnosed and treated for vulvar cancer, although more studies are needed to better investigate this field of interest and to identify strategies to relieve their psychological distress. Care providers should implement an integrated care model to help women with vulvar cancer recognise and address their unmet needs.

【 授权许可】

Unknown