Study: Impact on sexual well-being among people with an inherited BRCA mutation

Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) syndrome, most commonly linked to mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, significantly increases a woman’s risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer—often at a younger age than the general population. As a result, many women with HBOC consider or undergo risk-reducing surgeries such as mastectomy or salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes). These preventive steps, while potentially life-saving, can bring a range of physical and emotional consequences—one of the most overlooked being the impact on sexual health.

A recent study aimed to explore whether HBOC syndrome itself increases the risk of sexual dysfunction, or if other factors—such as early menopause from surgery—are more influential. Researchers surveyed 202 women using a validated tool called the Sexual Function Questionnaire 28 (SFQ28), comparing those with HBOC syndrome to a control group without it.

The findings were enlightening. Simply being diagnosed with HBOC did not lead to worse outcomes in sexual function across key domains like desire, arousal, orgasm, and enjoyment. Instead, menopausal status—whether natural or induced—was the strongest predictor of sexual dysfunction. Women in menopause, especially those experiencing it earlier due to preventive surgery, were significantly more likely to report issues such as reduced lubrication, lower sexual desire, and difficulty achieving orgasm.

Interestingly, the study also found that psycho-oncological support (mental health care focused on cancer-related stress) had a positive effect, particularly in improving sexual enjoyment. This reinforces the importance of not only addressing the physical aspects of cancer prevention and treatment, but also the emotional and psychological toll that comes with it.

What does this mean for women with HBOC and the clinicians who care for them?

It means that sexual health should not be an afterthought. Currently, conversations around HBOC often focus on cancer risk, surgical options, fertility preservation, and surveillance. But the impact of early menopause—and its consequences on quality of life—should be openly discussed from the beginning. Many women are unprepared for the changes in their sexual function that follow preventive procedures, and they deserve comprehensive care that includes hormonal counseling, vaginal health support, and mental health services.

In short, while HBOC syndrome does not directly impair sexual function, the consequences of managing the condition—especially early or surgical menopause—do. Addressing these side effects proactively can help preserve not just physical health, but also emotional intimacy and overall quality of life.

Takeaway

Sexual dysfunction in women with HBOC syndrome is primarily related to menopausal status, not the genetic diagnosis itself. Integrating sexual health and menopause management into routine counseling and follow-up care can make a meaningful difference.

Read the full article here.