Sexual Dysfunction in Cancer Patients and Survivors #293

Distress, Fatigue, and Sexuality: Understanding and Treating Concerns and Symptoms in Patients With Multiple Myeloma

“…Sexual dysfunction in patients with cancer may be caused by the disease, chemotherapeutic agents, surgical procedures, hormonal therapy, medications, and comorbid conditions and can interfere with intimate relationships (Richards, Bertolotti, Doss, & McCullagh, 2011). Providers should routinely ask patients with MM about sexual function and dysfunction because patients usually do not volunteer information about these topics despite citing sexuality as a major concern (Goncalves & Groninger, 2015;Osborne et al, 2014) (see Figures 6 and 7). Sexual dysfunction is an issue only if the patient regards it as one.…”

“…ɔ "Has your level of sexual activity decreased or changed?" Goncalves & Groninger, 2015;Richards et al, 2011;Tomlinson, 1998Tomlinson, . 2007Richards et al, 2011).…”

“…Vaginal lubricants are recommended for the initial treatment of vaginal dryness (Goncalves & Groninger, 2015). Women should be encouraged to discuss vaginal dryness with their gynecologist to determine the best treatment for their sexual dysfunction (Goncalves & Groninger, 2015).…”