Background: breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, and many undergo mastectomy as part of curative treatment. Sexual health is often negatively affected after the procedure, yet it is rarely addressed in healthcare. Women report changes in body image, self-esteem, and intimacy. Nurses play an important role in supporting women throughout this process. 

Aim: to describe women’s experiences of their sexual health after undergoing a mastectomy. 

Method: a qualitative literature review was conducted. Ten peer-reviewed original articles were analyzed using thematic analysis according to Braun and Clarke. 

Results: three main themes were identified: Altered body image, Sexuality has no place in the care encounter, and Lost sexual identity. In addition, one subtheme emerged: Sexuality as a demand rather than a mutual need. Women expressed feelings of shame, reduced self-esteem, and a lack of support regarding sexuality. Sexuality was often seen as a taboo topic in healthcare, which contributed to vulnerability, emotional distance, and isolation. 

Conclusion: the study highlights that women’s sexual health is affected on multiple levels after mastectomy. It underlines the need for nurses to actively address sexuality as a natural part of care. Further research is needed to develop person-centered nursing interventions that support sexual well-being.