After treatment for gynecologic cancer, women have sex less frequently, according scientists from the University of Colorado Cancer Center.
On average, the women in their study group had sex about six times a month before treatment. This frequency dropped to between two and five times each month after treatment.
However, the decrease in sex didn’t not seem to negatively affect their relationships.
Gynecologic cancers include cancers of the uterus, cervix, ovaries, vagina, vulva, and endometrium (the lining of the uterus). Depending on their location and severity, these cancers may be treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. In some times, a combination of treatment approaches is used. An estimated 90,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with a form of gynecologic cancer each year.
Two hundred ninety women participated in the study. Forty-one percent had been treated for uterine/endometrial cancer. Ovarian cancer had affected 37% of the women and 22% had had cervical cancer or another type.
Ninety-two percent of the women had had surgery, 62% had had chemotherapy, and 30% had undergone radiation.
Each woman completed a 181-question survey about their sexual health and relationships before and after cancer treatment.
Sexual dysfunction was more common among younger and premenopausal women, as well as those who had had chemotherapy and those who were in committed relationships.
The women with sexual problems were more likely to attend relationship counseling.
In spite of lower sexual frequency and more sexual dysfunction, the women did not report higher rates of relationship problems.
"We think that if couples are given the option to go to counseling during cancer treatment it may help with their sexual health in the long run," said researcher Saketh Guntupalli, MD, in a University of Colorado Cancer Center blog post.
"If we can catch those patients that may have problems up front and offer interventions, especially younger couples, it can really enhance life after cancer," he added.
The study results were presented in May at the annual meeting of the American Society for Clinical Oncology.
Resources
ASCO University
Saketh Guntupalli, et al.
“Sexual and marital dysfunction in women with gynecologic cancer: A multi-institutional, cross-sectional trial”
(Abstract 9592, presented at the 2015 annual meeting of the American Society for Clinical Oncology, May 2015 in Chicago, IL)
http://meetinglibrary.asco.org/content/153276-156
University of Colorado Cancer Center
Bakemeyer, Taylor
“Study shows sexual dysfunction after gynecologic cancer treatment”
(May 30, 2015)
http://www.coloradocancerblogs.org/study-shows-sexual-dysfunction-after-gynecologic-cancer-treatment/
You may also be interested in...
Other Popular Articles
What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?
The term “jelqing” refers to a set of penis stretching exercises that some believe can make the penis bigger. Although the practice has gained attention and popularity in blogs and internet forums in recent years, there is no scientific evidence that it is an effective way to permanently increase the size of one’s penis. In fact, in some cases, jelqing may actually cause damage to the penis, so it is a good idea to get all the facts before setting off to try it.
What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?
Sensate focus is a technique used to improve intimacy and communication between partners around sex, reduce sexual performance anxiety, and shift away from ingrained, goal-oriented sexual patterns that may not be serving a couple.
What Is the Average Penis Size?
If you have ever wondered how your penis compares to others in terms of size, you are not alone. Many men are curious to know how their penises stack up compared to the average. Unfortunately, general curiosity can sometimes give way to full-on obsession and anxiety about penis size. This can be an unhealthy and often unnecessary fixation, especially because most men who think their penises are too small have perfectly normal-sized penises.
What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?
Edging is the practice of stopping sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm to prolong a sexual experience. The term stems from the concept of approaching the metaphorical “edge” of orgasm but stopping before going over the edge.
Can Sex Reduce Menstrual Cramps?
The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.
Having sex while you experience menstrual cramps is healthy and can provide significant benefits. While it might not be the first activity that comes to mind when your PMS or period cramping begins, many people enjoy sex to reduce menstrual cramps, experience increased pleasure and benefit from other advantages. Learn more about having sex while menstrual cramps are happening and how it can help your body.
The Sex-Positivity Movement: What it Means to Be Sex-Positive
You may have heard references to “being sex-positive” or “the sex-positivity movement” in popular culture. Various celebrities have brought attention to this movement by speaking out about their beliefs and personal experiences regarding sexuality, sexual health, body positivity, “slut-shaming,” and sexual assault.
