Introduction:
Gynecological cancer is one of the most commonly occurring forms of cancer in women and has a major impact on the quality of life. Women with gynecological cancer often show depressive symptoms like anxiety and fear. The most common cause of anxiety and depression in women with gynecological cancer is the fear of the inability to meet the expensive medical care and loss of reproductive capacity. Research shows that women with gynecological cancers having mental health issues have lesser life spans than women without any mental health issues. Hence it is very important to assess the mental health status of women with gynecological cancer.
What Is Gynecological Cancer?
Gynecological cancer is cancer (uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells having the capability to spread to other body parts) that begins in the reproductive organs of a woman. Gynecological cancers are usually seen in the area below the stomach and between the hip bones. Women of any age can get affected by gynecological cancer and the risk increases with age.
What Are the Types of Gynecological Cancer?
The five major types of gynecological cancer are as follows:
- Cervical Cancer:
Cervical cancer is cancer that occurs in the cervix which is the narrow lower end of the uterus.
-
Endometrial Cancer:
Endometrial cancer is also known as uterine cancer. Endometrial cancer usually begins in the cells of the uterus lining and can occur anywhere in the uterus. The uterus is a pear-shaped organ found in a woman’s pelvis and is the place for the growth of the baby.
-
Ovarian Cancer:
Ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries which are present on either side of the uterus. Ovarian cancers can also occur in the fallopian tubes (tubular structure through which eggs from the ovaries pass to the uterus) or peritoneum (a layer that forms the lining of the abdominal cavity and covers the abdominal organs). In many cases, ovarian cancer is detected only after it spreads into the pelvis and abdomen.
-
Vaginal Cancer:
Cancer that occurs in the vagina is known as vaginal cancer. The vagina is the hollow tubular channel between the bottom portion of the uterus and the outside of the body.
-
Vulvar Cancer:
Vulvar cancer starts in the vulva, which is the outer surface of the female genital organs. Vulvar cancer usually begins as a sore or lump on the vulva that causes itching.
What Is the Relation Between Gynecological Cancer and Mental Health Issues?
The commonly occurring mental health issues in women with gynecological cancer are as follows:
-
The ovary and uterus are considered reproductive organs which are related to femininity and fertility in women. Hence women suffering from gynecological cancer undergoing hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) or oophorectomy (surgical removal of ovaries) may show psychological consequences.
-
Research has shown that women with gynecological cancer have a higher incidence of developing depression and anxiety.
-
The incidence of mental disorders associated with gynecological cancer is higher in young women when compared to women of older age.
-
Young women with gynecological cancer have an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and body image dissatisfaction than older women.
-
Women with gynecological cancer having low income, advanced stage of cancer, and financial difficulties experience severe distress.
-
Women who are diagnosed with gynecological cancer may face changes in work life, married life, and financial status which might lead to an increased tendency of developing mental health issues.
-
The patient’s decreased energy, the tendency to always sleep, and difficulty in finding pleasure in life may negatively affect the bond with their family members and may lead to mental health issues in patients.
-
Sexuality is a significant factor in married life. Sexuality plays a vital role in a person’s psychological, biological, and social life and helps in nurturing personal development and improving the quality of life. Most women diagnosed with gynecological cancer did not have sexual relations with their partners. Studies suggest that women with gynecological cancer believed that their partners were not attracted to them and that their spouses would not experience any pleasure from them.
-
Women with genital organ cancer would experience low sexual interest and changes in their sexual functions due to the treatments like chemotherapy that they receive for cancer. Studies suggest that women have the fear that sexual activity would cause them physical harm and they believed they could no longer have sex lives. A study stated that women with genital organ cancer wanted their healthcare professionals to discuss the sexual issues and effects of treatment on sexuality.
-
Women with gynecological cancer suffer from body image issues due to the loss of female organs. This causes disrupted self-feelings in a woman which would make them stay away from the outside world.
What Are the Symptoms of Mental Health Issues in Gynecological Cancer Patients?
The commonly seen symptoms of mental health issues in gynecological patients are as follows:
-
Feeling sad and hopeless.
-
Sleeping too much or having trouble sleeping.
-
Trouble in focusing and solving problems.
-
Acting restless, short-tempered, and angry.
-
Feeling guilty or anxious without any reason.
-
Loss of interest in things that once were a means of enjoyment.
-
Feeling fearful and out of control.
-
Staying away from family members and friends.
-
Weight changes.
-
Mood swings.
-
Suicidal thoughts.
What Are the Ways to Prevent Mental Health Issues in Patients With Gynecological Cancer?
The measures taken to prevent mental health issues in patients with gynecological cancer are as follows:
-
Patients with gynecological cancer should undergo regular mental health consultations to detect issues like anxiety and depression.
-
Patients should stay active by engaging themselves in any hobbies.
-
Joining a support group and talking to cancer patients and survivors with similar experiences would help in improving the mental health status of women with gynecological cancer.
-
Discussing and getting help from family members regarding concerns related to the cost of cancer treatment.
-
Patients with gynecological cancer should participate in social gatherings and let their loved ones know about their emotional health.
-
Discussing with the doctor for a referral to social support and mental health services.
Conclusion:
Women diagnosed with gynecological cancer should be evaluated from a psychosocial point of view. Social support and care should be provided to help women cope with their illnesses. A study on women with gynecological cancer showed that women who got more emotional support during the phase of cancer had a higher quality of life and lower levels of mental distress. Hence providing an environment of love and care would improve a woman’s perspective towards fighting the battle of gynecological cancer.
