We found that the patient’s physical condition had a
profound impact on the couples’ relationship and social life.
Most physical symptoms decreased during recovery, which is
consistent with other studies (Schag et al. 1994, Ramsey
et al. 2002, Mizuno et al. 2007). However, not all patients
reach total physical recovery (Desnoo & Faithfull 2006).
Symptoms and side effects have previously been described as
affecting the patients’ professional identity, social and intimate
life several years after surgery (Rozmovits & Ziebland
2004). Our study highlights how the partner’s life is similarly
affected and that an exhausting recovery can cause early
retirement for both patient and partner. It was also clear that
their sexual activity was affected. Patients suffered from the
loss, while the partners expressed an indifferent attitude
towards the change.