Relationship Dynamics among Couples Dealing with Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review

Most studies have been concerned with the experiences and needs of women with breast cancer and spouses/partners separately. In this review, the relationship dynamics that characterize the couple’s experience of breast cancer treatment were investigated. Findings will inform both researchers and professionals in the area of oncology. A systematic literature search was performed in CINAHL, PsychINFO, MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science. A checklist for qualitative and observational studies was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the studies. Seventeen studies were included, and the synthesis of the literature revealed five domains that characterized the dyadic process: dyadic coping strategies, psychosocial support, communication, the couple’s sexual life and spirituality. The included studies provide the basis for knowledge and awareness about the experience of couples with cancer, the specific dimensions enacted during the breast cancer treatment path and the type of responses that are associated with a positive couple’s adjustment to the disease.