Nurse-Led Interventions for Sexual Dysfunction in Cancer Survivors: A Scoping Review

IntroductionSexual dysfunction is a common consequence of cancer that affects survivors' body image, social relationships, and quality of life more often than in the general population, yet it remains frequently overlooked in cancer care. This scoping review aimed to describe nurse-led interventions for sexual dysfunction and their outcomes among people with cancer and cancer survivors.MethodsA scoping review was conducted and reported following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Six databases and grey literature were searched for primary studies (2015-2025) focusing on nurse-led interventions for sexual dysfunction or related outcomes in adults with cancer or cancer survivors. Twenty-four eligible studies were identified, and the findings were narratively synthesized.ResultsMost studies used quasi-experimental or single-group designs, with few randomized controlled or mixed-method studies. The studies were geographically concentrated in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The interventions were mostly multicomponent psychoeducational or psychosexual programs combining tailored education, counselling, skills training, and strategies such as pelvic-floor exercises, relaxation techniques, and guidance on lubricants or vaginal dilators. Many interventions improved pain during intercourse, lubrication, sexual distress, and sexual satisfaction. In some culturally adapted or theory-based programs, sexual function scores moved from severe dysfunction towards normal ranges. Larger pragmatic trials in settings with enhanced usual care showed modest or domain-specific benefits and no clear advantage in terms of overall sexual function.ConclusionsNurse-led interventions are beneficial and can ameliorate pain during intercourse, lubrication problems, and sexual distress, especially in patients with gynecological cancers. The size and durability of these benefits remain uncertain. Future work should focus on testing culturally adapted and partner-inclusive interventions, using designs that ensure longitudinal follow-up. Integration of nurse-led sexual care in routine care for male and other cancer patients is also needed to ensure comprehensive cancer rehabilitation.