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Counseling cancer patients about changes in sexual function.
1Department of Behavioral Science, University of Texas, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA.
Oncology (Williston Park, N.Y.)
|December 3, 1999
Summary
Cancer treatments frequently cause lasting sexual dysfunctions. Brief sexual counseling, including education and coping strategies, can significantly benefit patients and partners, improving sexual health post-therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Sexual Medicine
- Psycho-oncology
Background:
- Cancer therapies often result in persistent sexual dysfunctions.
- Sexual counseling is not a standard component of most cancer care.
- These dysfunctions significantly impact patients' quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of sexual counseling in oncology.
- To outline the components of effective brief sexual counseling for cancer patients.
- To discuss models for delivering sexual health services within cancer care settings.
Main Methods:
- Review of current practices and literature on sexual dysfunction after cancer treatment.
- Description of a model for brief counseling integrating education, communication strategies, and self-help.
- Discussion of referral pathways for specialized care.
Main Results:
- Most cancer patients and partners can benefit from brief, targeted sexual counseling.
- Counseling should address treatment impacts, communication, physical challenges (e.g., ostomy), and specific issues (e.g., pain, low desire).
- Allied health professionals can deliver brief counseling; specialized care may be needed for a minority.
Conclusions:
- Integrating sexual counseling into routine oncology care is crucial.
- Brief counseling is an effective, accessible intervention for many cancer survivors.
- Models for care delivery include in-house allied health professionals or specialist referrals, though reimbursement remains a challenge.