Intimacy After The Cancer Diagnosis
By Dr Roland Chieng (MBBS, MRCOG) , Associate Consultant,
Centre of Assisted Reproduction,
Singapore General Hospital
The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients after cancer diagnosis is high. It is estimated to be 40%-100%, depending on the types of cancer. Almost 50% of women with breast and gynaecological cancer experience sexual dysfunction. For men with prostate cancer, prevalence rate varies from 60-90%.
Factors affecting Sexual Function in People With Cancer:
| 1. |
CANCER, the word itself carries implication and stigma both to the patient as well as the partner |
| 2. |
Treatment Related Side Effects have drastic effect on sexual desire especially if it affects daily activities |
| 3. |
Psychological Factors after the diagnosis and therapy
- There could be alteration of body image and inability to have intercourse as a result of disease, surgery or treatment
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| 4. |
Relationship with Partner both before and after diagnosis.
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There will be fear of abandonment by one’s partner
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Therefore sexual dysfunction after the cancer diagnosis cannot be treated with medication. It requires extensive psychosexual counseling not just for the patient, but the couple. Ultimately, it will depend very much on an individual’s sexual self schema (i.e. whether one regards one’s own sexuality in a positive light). If he/she is always positive, there is very high likelihood that he/she will remain sexually active even after cancer and its treatment.
If you have questions about this topic, please contact the Cancer Helpline on tel: 6225 5655 or email cancerhelpline@nccs.com.sg |
