Sexual effects of cancer: women and people born with female reproductive organs

People commonly experience sexual side-effects as a consequence of cancer diagnosis and treatment; this article explores these in women and people born with female reproductive organs.

Abstract

When given for a variety of cancer types, many cancer treatments – including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery and hormone therapy – have a negative effect on sexual wellbeing. This is due to both physical and psychosocial aspects of a patient’s cancer journey. This article – the first in a two-part series exploring the sexual side-effects of cancer treatment – discusses these issues in women and people born with female reproductive organs. It highlights the need for open communication and comprehensive support, as well as varying levels of intervention depending on patients’ individual needs.

Citation: Pugh J, Buckley L (2024) Sexual effects of cancer: people born with female reproductive organs. Nursing Times [online]; 120: 3.

Authors: Julia Pugh is sex and relationships psychotherapist and advanced nurse practitioner, NHS and Perci Health; Lynn Buckley is sex, relationships and trauma psychotherapist and specialist nurse, Perci Health.