Perspectives of health care providers referring patients to a newly implemented sexual health program in a Canadian cancer center

Walker, Lauren M.; Sears, Carly; Booker, Reanne; Glaze, Sarah; Doll, Corinne; Phan, Tien; Brennan, Kerrie; Robinson, John W.

doi:10.1007/s00520-021-06289-4

Cited by 2 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 8 publications

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“…[18][19][20] A newly implemented sexual health program at a Canadian cancer center also proved useful to healthcare providers and was deemed valuable in addressing gaps in care. 21 Evaluating the patient perspective, Tracy et al introduced a nurse-led sexual health clinic and found that patients experienced improvements in sexual well-being after participation. 13 Studies suggest that clinicians are open to instruction, and that patients are eager for education-it normalizes treatment-related sexual health changes and reduces anxiety, provides an opportunity for further questions, and helps improve communication with partners.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

No One-Size-Fits-All: Sexual Health Education Preferences in Patients with Breast Cancer

et al. 2022

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Background Using explanatory mixed methods, we characterize the education that patients with breast cancer received about potential sexual health effects of treatment and explore preferences in format, content, and timing of education. Patients and Methods Adult patients with stage 0–IV breast cancer seen at an academic breast center during December 2020 were emailed questionnaires assessing sexual health symptoms experienced during treatment. Patients interested in further study involvement were invited to participate in semistructured interviews. These interviews explored sexual health education provided by the oncology team and patient preferences in content, format, and timing of education delivery. Results Eighty-seven (32%) patients completed the questionnaire. Most patients reported decreased sexual desire (69%), vaginal dryness (63%), and less energy for sexual activity (62%) during/after treatment. Sixteen patients participated in interviews. Few women reported receiving information about potential sexual effects of breast cancer treatment; patients who did reported a focus on menopausal symptoms or fertility rather than sexual function. Regarding preferences in format, patients were in favor of multiple options being offered rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, with particular emphasis on in-person options and support groups. Patients desired education early and often throughout breast cancer treatment, not only about sexual side effects but also on mitigation strategies, sexual function, dating and partner intimacy, and body image changes. Conclusion Few patients received information about the sexual health effects of breast cancer treatment, though many experienced symptoms. Potential adverse effects should be discussed early and addressed often throughout treatment, with attention to strategies to prevent and alleviate symptoms and improve overall sexual health.

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