Sexual function after treatment for gynecological malignancy.
Curr Opin Oncol
; 16(5): 492-5, 2004 Sep.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-15314521
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review summarizes current knowledge about the nature of sexual dysfunction in gynecological cancers, highlighting recent publications on disease effects, treatment effects, and communication issues. RECENT FINDINGS:
Recent studies have shown the impact of radiotherapy on sexual function in cervical cancer and have highlighted differences in the levels and duration of sexual problems in women with early stage compared with advanced, recurrent, or persistent disease. Qualitative studies in cervical and endometrial cancer have highlighted women's concerns in relation to femininity, fears of sexual relations, and the importance of communication with the woman's partner. Similar findings have been obtained in studies of ovarian cancer. Predictors of sexual function in ovarian cancer have been suggested by a recent study, with risk factors for poorer sexual functioning being age, treatment, time since treatment, poor self esteem/body image, physical symptoms, poor performance status, depression, and anxiety. Similar risk factors have been highlighted in vulval cancer. Communication issues have been discussed, with some preliminary exploration of the benefits of group therapy and psychosexual counseling.SUMMARY:
Recent research is helping us to understand more about the impact of the different types of gynecological cancer and its treatment on sexual functioning, with information being provided about key risk factors and predictors of sexual dysfunction that can be used to guide appropriate advice and support. The assessment and treatment of sexual functioning must become part of the standard care of women diagnosed with gynecological cancer.
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Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Radioterapia
/
Disfunções Sexuais Fisiológicas
/
Procedimentos Cirúrgicos em Ginecologia
/
Neoplasias dos Genitais Femininos
/
Antineoplásicos
Tipo de estudo:
Prognostic_studies
/
Qualitative_research
/
Risk_factors_studies
Limite:
Female
/
Humans
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2004
Tipo de documento:
Article