A qualitative exploration of body image and sexual functioning among breast cancer survivors in a private teaching hospital, Oyo State, Nigeria

Purpose: This study explored body image and sexual functioning among breast cancer survivors at a private teaching hospital in Oyo State, Nigeria. It aimed to examine the physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual dimensions of survivorship following treatment. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was employed. Fifteen breast cancer survivors were purposively selected and interviewed using a semistructured interview guide. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews, audiorecorded with participants’ consent, and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis approach. Data saturation was achieved by the fifteenth interview. Results: Four major themes emerged regarding body image: (1) Physical Changes (subthemes: feeling incomplete after breast removal, body weakness); (2) Emotional Reactions (subthemes: fear after diagnosis, loss of confidence, acceptance); (3) Family Relationships (subthemes: family encouragement, spousal support); and (4) Religious Coping (subtheme: faith in God as a source of comfort). For sexual functioning, two themes were identified: (1) Decline in Sexual Interest and (2) Avoidance of Sexual Intimacy Due to Physical Discomfort. These themes reflected participants’ experiences of physical limitations, emotional trauma, spiritual resilience, and changing intimate relationships posttreatment. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for holistic survivorship care that includes psychological support, sexual health counseling, and family-centered interventions to address the multifaceted impact of breast cancer treatment.