Online sexual health interventions for breast cancer survivors: a systematic review of program features and sexual outcomes.

INTRODUCTION

Online-based interventions offer a promising solution to the numerous obstacles associated with delivering sexual health services to breast cancer survivors. It is most effective to implement online services that are grounded in scientific evidence and tailored to their specific needs.

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review primarily aimed to analyze the features of online interventions tailored for individuals with breast cancer, with a secondary focus on examining their impact on sexual outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic search of articles was conducted in seven databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane SID, and MAGIRAN), using the terms breast cancer, survivor, sexual health, internet intervention, and application software, with no time restriction up to June 30, 2025. Twelve eligible articles were included. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, and the risk of bias for randomized controlled trials was evaluated using the Cochrane tool.

RESULT: Although there is a diverse range of content used in delivering interventions, the predominant approaches encompass educational initiatives, interactive techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, personalized information, and self-help strategies. Most studies have reported positive effects of online interventions on sexual health.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review shows that online interventions have features that can help improve the provision of sexual health services and be effective in improving the sexual health of breast cancer survivors.