Cervical cancer: issues of sexuality and fertility

Cervical cancer rates have fallen in the United States; regardless, the disease remains a significant concern for women, especially those who are premenopausal. The management of cervical cancer is dependent on stage of disease at diagnosis, and specific needs emerge for patients both during and following treatment. Over the past decade, the focus has been to maintain adequate tumor control while reducing long-term negative consequences. However, problems with sexuality and fertility persist for women treated for cervical cancer despite these advances. Sexual dysfunction following treatment for gynecologic cancer has been well documented in the literature, and recent studies demonstrate the success of brief psychosexual interventions. Treatment of sexual difficulties in cancer patients can be achieved through the provision of information, support, and symptom management, ideally as part of a sexual health program. Resources are not always available to develop such a program. However, medical professionals can identify individuals and organizations with expertise in treating sexual and fertility concerns, which can be provided to their patients, making help with these problems more accessible as needs arise.