Objective: The objective of the present study is to test the effect of psychological trait dimensions (e.g., personality dimensions, sexual beliefs, sexual inhibition and sexual excitation), along with medical dimensions, in sexual function recovery in men with prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy. Design and Method: Over a 12 month period, 75 men diagnosed with prostate cancer and pending for radical prostatectomy with bilateral nerve sparing will be assessed four times (before surgery and at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery) in order to examine the role of psychobiological dimensions in the evolution of different dimensions of sexual function (sexual desire, erectile function, and orgasm). Eligible participants will be presented with the study’s objectives and procedures and if agree to participate voluntarily in the study will give their written consent. A clinical interview will be conducted individually with each participant and a battery of self-reported questionnaires will also be filled out by the participants in each assessment session. Results: Given the particular impact of radical prostatectomy in men’s sexual functioning, particular aspects regarding the interplay between psychological and medical factors in determining the recovery of sexual function in men with prostate cancer will be discussed. Conclusions: This study has important clinical implications for the future management of sexual problems associated with prostate cancer and related treatments, and have important implications for the sexual health, general and emotional wellbeing of patients with cancer.
Psychobiological Predictors of Sexual Function in Patients with Prostate Cancer After Radical Prostatectomy
