Effect of WhatsApp-based BETTER model sexual counselling on sexual function and sexual quality of life in breast cancer survivors: a randomized control trial

Abstract Objective The aim of the study was to determine the effect of WhatsApp-based BETTER sex counselling on sexual function and sexual quality of life in breast cancer survivors in a randomized control trial. Methods This is a randomized controlled trial in which a total of 90 breast cancer survivors were recruited using convenience sampling and then randomly assigned to two groups of WhatsApp-based BETTER model counselling and routine care. Data collection tools consisted of a demographic questionnaire, the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) and the Sexual Function Index (FSFI-BC). Participants in the intervention group were given access to the 6-week program. The program consisted of six consultation and assignment packages covering all six steps of the BETTER model. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Chi-square test, independent samples t-test and repeated measures analysis of variance were used. The significance level (p-value) was considered to be less than 0.05. Results In the control group, the mean score of SQL scale changed from 35.16 ± 10.71 to 35.16 ± 12.97 (P > 0.05) and in the intervention group, it significantly increased from 34.76 ± 10.13 to 68.20 ± 20.48 (P 0.05), and in the intervention group, it significantly improved from 59.49 ± 6.10 to 120.73 ± 25.54 (P