Treatment of Sexual Problems in People With Cancer
Many patients are fearful or anxious about their first sexual experience after cancer treatment. Fear and anxiety can cause patients to avoid intimacy,
touch, and sexual activity. The partner may also feel fearful or anxious about
initiating any activity that might be thought of as pressuring to be intimate
or that might cause physical discomfort. Patients and their partners should
discuss concerns with their doctor or other qualified health professional.
Honest communication of feelings, concerns, and preferences is important.
In general, a wide variety of treatment modalities are available for patients
with sexual dysfunction after cancer. Patients can learn to adapt to changes
in sexual function through reading books, pamphlets, and internet resources or
listening to and watching videos and CD-ROMs. Health professionals who
specialize in sexual dysfunction can provide patients with these resources as
well as information on national organizations that may provide support. Some
patients may need medical intervention such as hormone replacement, medications, medical devices, or surgery. Patients who have more serious problems may need
sexual counseling on an individual basis, with his or her partner, or in a
group. Further testing and research is needed to compare the effectiveness of
various treatment programs that combine medical and psychological approaches
for people who have had cancer.
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