Adolescents with cancer. Sexual and reproductive issues

Adolescents with cancer are confronted with sexual and reproductive issues at diagnosis, during the entire treatment period, and as long-term survivors. To help the patient cope effectively with his/her concerns, the nurse must understand normal sexual growth and development, current trends in adolescent sexuality, and specific problems arising from diagnosis and treatment. This article discusses an overview of sexuality in the well adolescent, using research findings and anecdotal accounts. The impact of the diagnosis on the adolescent's emerging sexual identity is explored in depth. Information is given on the impact of long-term effects on both sexuality and reproduction. Finally, nursing interventions for helping adolescent cancer patients cope with both the impact of diagnosis and late effects are given. These interventions include collaboration with parents, relationship building, assessment, anticipatory guidance, education, and counseling.