Sexual effects of cancer: women and people born with female reproductive organs
- Pugh, Julia
- Buckley, Lynn
Abstract When given for a variety of cancer types, many cancer treatments - including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery and hormone therapy - have a negative effect on sexual wellbeing. This is due to both physical and psychosocial aspects of a patient's cancer journey. This article - the first in a two-part series exploring the sexual side-effects of cancer treatment - discusses these issues in women and people born with female reproductive organs. It highlights the need for open communication and comprehensive support, as well as varying levels of intervention depending on patients' individual needs.
This article has been double-blind peer reviewed
In this article…
How different cancer treatments affect sexual function and sexuality
Physical, psychosocial and psychosexual side-effects of cancer treatment
How health professionals can support patients, including using an intervention model
Figure
NT SELF-ASSESSMENT
Test your knowledge. After reading this article go to nursingtimes.net/NTSATests
If you score 80% or more, you will receive a certificate that you can use as revalidation evidence.