Early Nursing Sexual Consultation and Psychoeducation for Improving Sexual Life Quality of Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is a significant public health concern, with a rising incidence rate and profound implications for women’s overall health and quality of life. Sexual dysfunction is a common yet often overlooked consequence of BC and its treatment. Objectives: The present study aimed to review the current state of research on sexual function in BC patients and provide recommendations for future nursing research in this area. Methods: This paper is an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of English and Chinese articles published in PubMed and CNKI between 2020 and March 2023. Search terms included "breast cancer" or "sexual function", duplicates and unrelated studies were excluded. Data synthesis was done using Rev Man 5.4.1 and the Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Results: A total of 814 female patients with BC received sexual nursing consultation and psychological education intervention. The quality of sexual life was evaluated using the Female Sexual Function Index indicators. The counseling model was divided into multimedia counseling, WeChat/app counseling, PLISSIT/BETTER counseling, physical and mental education, and group education. The standardized mean difference (SMD) for effect of sexual counseling and psychoeducation on orgasm for BC patients values was 0.50 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.61 to 1.28], P < 0.00001. The SMD for effect of sexual counseling and psychoeducation on sexual arouse for BC patients values was 0.76 (95% CI = 0.65 to 0.88), P < 0.00001.The SMD for effect of sexual counseling and psychoeducation on dyspareunia for BC patients values was 0.40 (95% CI = 0.00 to 0.80), P = 0.65. The SMD on sexual arousal for BC patients’ values was 0.76 (95% CI = 0.65 to 0.88), P < 0.00001.The SMD on sexual function for BC patients values was 1.76 (95% CI = 1.70 to 1.82), P < 0.00001. Conclusions: Sexual counseling, PLISSIT or BETTER model intervention, and health education had a positive effect on cancer patients’ orgasm, sexual satisfaction, and vaginal lubrication. To improve the prognosis of patients, we should continue to focus on sexual education for patients with cancer in the future.