Communication regarding sexual needs in cancer patients is important, but unfortunately often overlooked. There is a false belief that, given the many challenges that cancer brings to a patient, sexuality is one of the last things that should be taken into account. This is absolutely not true - sexual needs are physiological needs and, just like any other, they require satisfaction.
Of course, in the course of oncological disease, the possibilities of satisfying sexual needs may (but do not have to) be slightly modified, but this does not mean that the patient's sexual life ceases to be a source of fulfillment and satisfaction [1] .
The treatment team has an important role in the process of caring for the well-being of an oncology patient. First of all, it is good practice to create a safe and trusted environment for the patient. The patient should feel comfortable and safe because this is what creates space
to open conversations about sexual needs. It is important for the doctor to create an atmosphere of trust so that the patient knows that he is welcome to express his concerns and ask questions about sexuality.
It is also good practice for the doctor to initiate a conversation about sexual needs. During such a conversation, it is worth assuring the patient that it is natural to have questions or concerns about the impact of the disease and oncological treatment on the sexual sphere. Open questions will certainly be helpful in such a conversation, as they will allow the patient to express his concerns or describe new experiences [2] .
Proactivity is also important - listening carefully to the patient. This creates space to express your emotions, concerns and questions. At this point, it is worth paying attention to how important it is to listen carefully and show interest and understanding. The next step is to provide the patient with the necessary information about possible side effects of treatment, changes in sexual function, and available strategies and resources that can help deal with these challenges.
In providing comprehensive care, the cooperation of the entire treatment team is crucial - many different fields of medicine may influence the sexual needs of oncology patients. Patient care can be provided not only by doctors and nurses, but also by psychologists and sexologists
and psychotherapists. It is important to provide the patient with comprehensive care
to be aware of problems arising during treatment,
because this allows the patient to be referred to the appropriate specialist if necessary [3] .
Your own work also plays an invaluable role - it is worth encouraging the patient
to seek support - your doctor can inform you about available resources
and support groups for cancer patients. Self-help groups can be valuable support in dealing with challenges in meeting sexual needs. Support can be received either through individual therapy, through group therapy sessions, or through use
from extensive resources conveniently available electronically.
Monika Kaszuba
[1] Cichosz M., Wieczorek A. (2016), Sexual problems of cancer patients. Roczniki Psychology, 19(2), pp. 167-187
[2] Bębenek M., Czuba B., Pilewska-Kozak A., Wojtyna E. (2015). The impact of cancer on the sexual sphere. Przegląd Menopauzalny, 14(4), pp. 273-278
[3] Sobolewski M., (2018). Sexuality of patients with cancer of the reproductive organs - recommendations of the European Society of Oncology (ESMO) and other scientific societies. Ginekologia Polska, 89(2), pp. 103-107
