Exploring Body Image and Sexual Functioning Among Prostate Cancer Survivors: A Qualitative Study in a Private Teaching Hospital, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Prostate cancer treatment affects men’s perceptions of body image, masculinity, and sexual functioning. While these experiences are well studied in Western contexts, limited evidence exists on how survivors in African settings reconstruct identity and intimacy following treatment. Aim: This study explored perceptions of body image and sexual functioning among prostate cancer survivors in a private teaching hospital in Oyo State, Nigeria. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological study situated within a constructivist paradigm was conducted. Thirteen prostate cancer survivors participated in semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Data collection continued until sufficient experiential richness was achieved and no substantially new insights emerged. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s phenomenological method. Results: Five themes emerged for body image, each with subthemes in parentheses: bodily awareness (physical decline, bodily aging), emotional adaptation (psychological shock, adaptive coping), self-reconstruction (resilient confidence, self-care prioritizing), social and family support, and body as a symbol of survival. Five themes also emerged for sexual functioning, with subthemes in parentheses: sexual dysfunction (declining sexual function, fatigue during intimacy), emotional sexual adjustment (masculine identity transformation, emotional distress), emotional intimacy development (non-physical intimacy, prioritizing self-care), partner support, and health-focused acceptance. Survivors initially experienced distress but gradually adapted through faith, family, and emotional reconnection. Conclusion: Survivorship involves physical, emotional, and relational transformation. Findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive, holistic nursing care that supports masculinity, body image, and intimacy in prostate cancer recovery. Keywords: Body image; Phenomenology; Prostate cancer; Sexual functioning; Survivorship; Nigeria