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Zangeneh S, Savabi-Esfahani M, Taleghani F, Sharbafchi MR, Salehi M. A silence full of words: sociocultural beliefs behind the sexual health of Iranian women undergoing breast cancer treatment, a qualitative study. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:84. [PMID: 36574074 PMCID: PMC9792940 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07502-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Therapeutic interventions lead to impaired sexual health in women undergoing breast cancer treatment. There are some problem such as vaginal dryness, decreased libido, decreased sexual satisfaction, and decreased frequency of sexual intercourse among breast cancer survivors. This study was conducted to discover the sexual experiences of women undergoing breast cancer treatment. METHODS A total of 39 semi-structured interviews were held with the women undergoing breast cancer treatment, husbands, and health care providers. Recorded interviews were transcribed and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Three categories of cultural and gender taboos, adherence to subjective norms, and hidden values in sexuality were revealed. The cultural and gender taboos category consisted of subcategories of learned sexual shame, fear of judgment, sexual schemas, and gender stereotypes. The adherence to subjective norms category consisted of subcategories of sexual socialization, being labeled as a disabled woman and the priority of being alive to sexuality. The hidden values in sexuality category consist of subcategories of Task-based sexuality, Tamkin, and Sexuality prevents infidelity. CONCLUSIONS Socio-cultural beliefs affect the sexual health of women undergoing breast cancer treatment, so paying attention to this issue can improve the quality of sexual health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Zangeneh
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mitra Savabi-Esfahani
- Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Hezar Jerib STR, P. O. Box, Isfahan, 81746-73461 Iran
| | - Fariba Taleghani
- Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Sharbafchi
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Omid Hospital, Iranian Cancer Control Center (MACSA), Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Salehi
- Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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2
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Krouwel EM, Albers LF, Nicolai MPJ, Putter H, Osanto S, Pelger RCM, Elzevier HW. Discussing Sexual Health in the Medical Oncologist's Practice: Exploring Current Practice and Challenges. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2020; 35:1072-1088. [PMID: 31209770 PMCID: PMC7679345 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-019-01559-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Sexuality is a significant quality-of-life concern for many cancer patients. Patients may be disadvantaged if they are not informed and not offered sexual health care. We sought to reveal oncologists' current practice and opinions concerning sexual counselling. The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge, attitude and practice patterns of Dutch medical oncologists regarding treatment-related sexual dysfunction. Questionnaires were sent to 433 members of the Dutch Society of Medical Oncology. The majority (81.5%) of the 120 responding medical oncologists (response rate 30.6%) stated they discussed sexual function with fewer than half of their patients. At the same time, 75.8% of the participating oncologists agreed that addressing sexual function is their responsibility. Sexual function was discussed more often with younger patients and patients with a curative treatment intent. Barriers for avoiding discussing sexual function were lack of time (56.1%), training (49.5%) and advanced age of the patient (50.4%). More than half (64.6%) stated they had little knowledge about the subject and the majority (72.9%) wanted to acquire additional training in sexual function counselling. Medical oncologists accept that sexual function counselling falls within their profession, yet they admit to not counselling patients routinely concerning sexual function. Only in a minority of cases do medical oncologists inform their patients about sexual side effects of treatment. Whether they counsel patients is related to how they view patient's prognosis, patient's age, and self-reported knowledge. Findings indicate there is a role for developing education and practical training.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Krouwel
- Department of Urology, J3P, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - L F Albers
- Department of Urology, J3P, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands.
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - M P J Nicolai
- Department of Urology, J3P, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - H Putter
- Department of Medical Statistics, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - S Osanto
- Department of Oncology, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - R C M Pelger
- Department of Urology, J3P, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - H W Elzevier
- Department of Urology, J3P, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 WB, Leiden, The Netherlands
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3
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Syrjala KL, Schoemans H, Yi JC, Langer SL, Mukherjee A, Onstad L, Lee SJ. Sexual Functioning in Long-Term Survivors of Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation. Transplant Cell Ther 2020; 27:80.e1-80.e12. [PMID: 33002641 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2020.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This investigation characterized sexual activity and sexual function in hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) survivors, compared them with norms, and examined factors associated with sexual dysfunction, with the goal of identifying targets for intervention to improve sexual health. Surviving adults from a large transplantation center were asked to complete an annual survey with a core of health questions and a module on sexual activity and function. Participants completed the Sexual Function Questionnaire, Cancer and Treatment Distress form, and Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale. Clinical data were collected from the transplantation medical database. Multivariate logistic regressions identified factors associated with sexual activity and function. Participating survivors (n = 1742) were a mean of 11.9 years (range, .4 to 43.1 years) after HCT, mean age 57.6 years, and 53% male. Women were more likely than men to report being sexually inactive in the past year (39% versus 27%) and, among those sexually active, to report low sexual function (64% versus 32%). Male and female survivors reported lower rates of sexual activity and function than comparison norms (all P < .01). In regressions, factors associated with being sexually inactive included older age, having <4 years of college education, low performance status, and not being in a committed relationship. Additional factors for men included receipt of nonmyeloablative conditioning and not being employed or in school. Low sexual functioning for men and women was associated with low performance status, and, for women, a committed relationship of lower quality, while for men the association was with older age. Sexual dysfunction is common in both men and women after HCT, regardless of time since treatment. Survivors need routine evaluation and access to multimodal interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Syrjala
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science and Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington.
| | - Hélène Schoemans
- Department of Hematology, University Hospitals Leuven and KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jean C Yi
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Shelby L Langer
- Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Ahona Mukherjee
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Lynn Onstad
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Stephanie J Lee
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science and Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
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4
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Eid K, Christensen S, Hoff J, Drake D, Yadav K, Burtson P, Kuriakose M, Patton H, Nyamathi A. Sexual Health Education: Knowledge Level of Oncology Nurses and Barriers to Discussing Concerns With Patients. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2020; 24:E50-E56. [DOI: 10.1188/20.cjon.e50-e56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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5
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Shartau K, Raffin Bouchal S, Booker R, King-Shier K. The experiences of individuals re-engaging in sexual relationships following a bone marrow transplant: A grounded theory study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2020; 46:101756. [PMID: 32330861 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2020.101756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sexual health is often neglected following a bone marrow transplant. The purpose of this study was to develop an in-depth explanation of the process that patients undergo when re-engaging in sexual relationships following a bone marrow transplant. METHODS A Straussian Grounded Theory methodology was employed. Ten bone marrow transplant patients (seven men, three women), participated in a semi-structured interview between October 2018 and April 2019. RESULTS A theoretical model of the process of re-engaging in a sexual relationship following a bone marrow transplant evolved over time. Four categories emerged from the data: identifying importance, taking responsibility, seeking resources, and navigating the partnered-relationship. Gender-specific details permeated all of these categories. These occurred in a non-linear process of 'seeking a new normal' and could apply at any time point during the treatment trajectory. CONCLUSIONS The model offers an explanation of the process participants went through during their illness and identifies ways that participants navigated change. Having intimate conversations often helped in targeting sexual recovery and affected the ease of transition in dealing with the transition to a 'new normal'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi Shartau
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, T2N 1N4, Alberta, Canada
| | - Shelley Raffin Bouchal
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, T2N 1N4, Alberta, Canada
| | - Reanne Booker
- OASIS (Oncology and Sexuality, Intimacy and Survivorship) Psychosocial Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 29 Street NW, Calgary, T2N 4N2, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kathryn King-Shier
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, T2N 1N4, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, TRW Building, 3D10, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, T2N 4Z6, Alberta, Canada.
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6
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Eeltink CM, Incrocci L, Leeuw IMVD, Zweegman S. Recommended patient information sheet on the impact of haematopoietic cell transplantation on sexual functioning and sexuality. Ecancermedicalscience 2020; 13:987. [PMID: 32010211 PMCID: PMC6974367 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2019.987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual concerns are common after haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Exposure to total body irradiation (TBI), alkylating agent and graft versus host disease (GvHD) can all affect sexual function, leading to problems in sexual desire, arousal and the orgasm phase of the sexual response cycle. In high-risk haematological malignancies, such as acute leukaemia and myelodysplastic syndromes, HCT often offers the highest chance for long-term survival. In addition, these haematological diseases and HCT can have an impact on body image, self-esteem, (sexual) relationship and psychosocial factors, all of which are able to affect sexuality and sexual function. Five years post HCT, 80% of the female survivors and 46% of the male survivors report sexual dysfunction. It has been shown that these patients cope better after having discussed sexual health. While healthcare providers (HCPs) have the responsibility to address sexual issues, it has been demonstrated that 48%–82% HCT recipients reported not having discussed sexual issues with their HCPs and that only one-third of the HCPs routinely discussed sexual issues with their patients. HCPs describe a lack of knowledge and being uncomfortable with the topic as the most important reasons for not addressing sexual functioning. Even so, it would help >90% HCPs if the patient initiated discussing sexual issues. However, to empower patients addressing sexual issues, adequate comprehensive patient information is needed. In an effort to better meet the patients’ need, a patient information sheet: ‘Information for patients undergoing Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation: the impact of the disease and treatment on sexual function and sexuality’, has been created. In this review, we describe what is known about the impact of HCT on sexual function and briefly the management of sexual problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corien M Eeltink
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Luca Incrocci
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Irma M Verdonck-de Leeuw
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Otolaryngology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (Amsterdam UMC), location VUmc, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Cancer Center Amsterdam, EMGO+ Institute, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sonja Zweegman
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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7
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Discussing sexuality in cancer care: towards personalized information for cancer patients and survivors. Support Care Cancer 2020; 28:4227-4233. [PMID: 31900615 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-05257-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The needs of cancer patients and survivors regarding discussing sexuality are frequently unmet, with many not receiving adequate information. To optimize information about sexuality and cancer, patients' perspective is needed. The goals of this study were to investigate what kind of information Dutch cancer patients need, their ideas on how to improve communication, and to identify patients who are more in need of information regarding sexuality. METHODS The Dutch Federation of Cancer Patient Organizations developed and conducted a nationwide 28-item online survey. The survey was distributed among cancer patients and survivors. RESULTS In total, 2657 (ex) cancer patients participated, with a median age of 61 years, and half were male (45.2%). Of the respondents, 65% were in need of information about sexuality. Patients ≤ 61 years (p < 0.001), patients with a self-reported negative effect of cancer on sexuality (p < 0.001) and patients who were diagnosed less than 2 years ago (p < 0.04) reported a higher need for information. Regardless of type of cancer, patients were most in need of practical tips and practical information regarding sexuality. To enhance communication about sexuality, 64% of the respondents suggested that it would be of help if care providers give information as standard care. CONCLUSIONS (Ex) cancer patient prefer to receive standard information about sexuality by their care providers. According to patients' preferences, information must include practical tips. Age, self-reported negative effect on sexuality status and time from diagnoses influenced the need for information.
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8
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Albers LF, Van Ek GF, Krouwel EM, Oosterkamp-Borgelink CM, Liefers GJ, Den Ouden MEM, Den Oudsten BL, Krol-Warmerdam EEM, Guicherit OR, Linthorst-Niers E, Putter H, Pelger RCM, Elzevier HW. Sexual Health Needs: How Do Breast Cancer Patients and Their Partners Want Information? JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2019; 46:205-226. [PMID: 31762399 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2019.1676853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
It is well known that breast cancer treatment can affect sexuality. This survey evaluated the needs of breast cancer patients and partners regarding sexual care. The majority of patients (80.4%) and partners (73.7%) did not receive any information regarding sexuality. Although only a quarter of all respondents reported a direct need for information regarding sexuality, most valued an opportunity to discuss sexuality. The nurse practitioner was the most preferable care provider to provide information about sexuality, supported by a brochure or website. Patients considered during treatment as most suitable timing of discussing sexuality, and partners before the start of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- L F Albers
- Department of Urology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - G F Van Ek
- Department of Urology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - E M Krouwel
- Department of Urology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - G J Liefers
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M E M Den Ouden
- Research Center Technology, Health & Care, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - B L Den Oudsten
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - E E M Krol-Warmerdam
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - O R Guicherit
- Department of Surgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | | | - H Putter
- Department of Medical Statistics, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - R C M Pelger
- Department of Urology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - H W Elzevier
- Department of Urology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Schoemans HM, Finn L, Foster J, Roche-Green A, Bevans M, Kullberg S, Lee E, Sargeant C, Schatz BA, Scheeler K, Shaw BE, Shereck E, Murphy EA, Burns LJ, Schmit-Pokorny K. A Conceptual Framework and Key Research Questions in Educational Needs of Blood and Marrow Transplantation Patients, Caregivers, and Families. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2019; 25:1416-1423. [PMID: 30796997 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2019.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Patient, caregiver, and family education and support was 1 of 6 key areas of interest identified by the National Marrow Donor Program/Be The Match 2-year project to prioritize patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR) goals for the blood and marrow transplantation (BMT) community. PCOR focuses on research to help patients and their caregivers make informed decisions about health care. Therefore, each area of interest was assigned to a working group with broad representation, including patients, caregivers, and clinicians. Each working group was charged with identifying gaps in knowledge and making priority recommendations for critical research to fill those gaps. The report from this working group presents a conceptual framework to address gaps in knowledge regarding patient and caregiver education in BMT and recommendations for priority research questions on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene M Schoemans
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Leuven and KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Laura Finn
- Division of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Jackie Foster
- National Marrow Donor Program/Be The Match, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Alva Roche-Green
- Department of Family and Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Margaret Bevans
- Office of Research on Women's Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | | | | | - Barry A Schatz
- Cancer Center Administration, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kristin Scheeler
- Information Resource Center, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Rye Brook, New York
| | - Bronwen E Shaw
- Center for Blood and Marrow Transplant Research and the Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Evan Shereck
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | | | - Linda J Burns
- National Marrow Donor Program/Be The Match, Minneapolis, Minnesota; Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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10
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Booker R, Walker L, Raffin Bouchal S. Sexuality after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: A mixed methods study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2019; 39:10-20. [PMID: 30850133 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined patients' experiences of sexuality following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. A secondary aim of the study was to explore healthcare provider-patient communication about sexuality. METHODS A mixed methods design was employed with an embedded qualitative-quantitative approach whereby the quantitative data were used to supplement the qualitative results. Participants (8 male and 3 female) participated in semi-structured interviews and also completed the FACT-BMT questionnaire. RESULTS Qualitative themes that emerged included: changes in sexual function (such as with desire and arousal), changes in relation to self (such as with body image, sexual identity), changes in relation to others (such as with current relationships, starting new relationships, fear of exposure to 'germs') and the experience of discussing sexual health concerns with healthcare providers. Quantitative data from the FACT-BMT revealed that participants reported low satisfaction with their sex life but remained interested in sex. The majority of participants reported dissatisfaction with the appearance of their body and most were not concerned about fertility. CONCLUSION This study documents the physical and psychosocial sexual health concerns reported in male and female recipients of HSCT. Concerns were present even for those many years post-HSCT. Implications include suggestions for healthcare providers regarding patient education and assessment of sexual health changes in patients throughout the HSCT trajectory and continuing well into survivorship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reanne Booker
- Department of Psychosocial Resources, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 29 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N2, Canada.
| | - Lauren Walker
- Department of Psychosocial Resources, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 29 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N2, Canada; Department of Oncology, Division of Psychosocial Oncology, University of Calgary, 1331 29 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N2, Canada.
| | - Shelley Raffin Bouchal
- Department of Graduate Studies, Faculty of Nursing, 2800 University Way NW, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada.
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11
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Yoo KH, Kang D, Kim IR, Choi EK, Kim JS, Yoon SS, Lee CH, Park S, Kim SJ, Kim K, Kim WS, Jung CW, Choi HJ, Jang JH, Cho J. Satisfaction with sexual activity and sexual dysfunction in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation survivors and their partners: a couple study. Bone Marrow Transplant 2018; 53:967-976. [PMID: 29403022 DOI: 10.1038/s41409-018-0097-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2017] [Revised: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Sexual dysfunction is a common long-term complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We assessed the extent to which HSCT survivors and their partners agree on the importance of and satisfaction with sexual activity and causes of sexual dysfunction, using a cross-sectional survey. Ratings of the importance of sexual activity were significantly higher in survivors than those of partners (2.57 vs. 2.14, P < 0.01). More survivors (48.4%) tried to discuss about sexuality with their partners than partners themselves (23.1%, P < 0.01). Male survivors were more likely to be sexually active than female survivors (odds ratio [OR] 5.04, 95% CI 1.85, 13.74). While 23.3 and 38% of male survivors and partners reported "rejection of partners" as a cause of sexual dysfunction, only 13.3% and none of female partners and survivors pointed this as a cause of sexual dysfunction respectively. There was poor concordance between survivors and partners in attitudes toward sexuality, satisfaction with sexual activity, and causes of sexual dysfunction. Couples who considered adequate sexual activity important were more likely to be sexually active than those who did not (OR 5.53, 95% CI 1.18, 25.89). Our study highlights the need for providing information and counselling about sexuality both to survivors and partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwai Han Yoo
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine,Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Danbee Kang
- Department of Clinical Research Design and Evaluation, SAIHST, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Im-Ryung Kim
- Cancer Education Center, Samsung Comprehensive Cancer Center, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Choi
- Cancer Education Center, Samsung Comprehensive Cancer Center, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jin Seok Kim
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung-Soo Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Silvia Park
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine,Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seok Jin Kim
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine,Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kihyun Kim
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine,Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Won Seog Kim
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine,Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chul Won Jung
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine,Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hye Jin Choi
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine,Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jun Ho Jang
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine,Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Juhee Cho
- Department of Clinical Research Design and Evaluation, SAIHST, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea. .,Cancer Education Center, Samsung Comprehensive Cancer Center, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea. .,Departments of Epidemiology and Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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