The importance of sexual health in cancer patients

Introduction: Sexuality has always been an essential and fundamental aspect of human existence. The disease and its treatment can have a crucial impact on this part of life for patients with cancer Sexual dysfunction can have negative effects on a person's quality of life on psychological, emotional, and social levels. Sexuality and intimacy can enhance their coping skills and reduce their distress. Therefore, it is essential that patients and healthcare professionals communicate and consult about this issue, but this rarely happens due to various barriers. Some of the barriers that prevent patients and healthcare providers from discussing sexual issues are embarrassment, lack of information time constraints, gender differences, and role confusion.Materials and Methods: A narrative review of the appropriate medical literature was conducted.Results: Some studies have shown that sexuality is taboo for women with cancer and that many healthcare providers are reluctant to address this issue because they feel it is not their job or because they lack the expertise and resources to provide support. These challenges can result in unmet needs and dissatisfaction among patients and their partners. To overcome these barriers and improve the sexual health and well-being of patients with cancer, several strategies can be implemented. Healthcare providers should routinely assess and address sexuality and sexual intimacy with patients as part of their holistic care healthcare providers patients, and partners should be educated and informed about the possible effects of cancer and its treatment on sexual function and how to cope with it.Conclusions: The results of previous studies indicate that couple-based psycho educational therapists with a component of sexual therapy are the most successful approaches. Also, various media and platforms, such as podcasts, charity actions, etc. an be useful to raise awareness and break the taboo around sexuality issues among cancer patients.

کلیدواژه ها:

Cancer ، Sexual health ، Supportive care ، Palliative care