Sexuality, Fertility, and Cancer
Abstract: Advances in screening and treatment have improved long-term survival for individuals diagnosed with cancer, necessitating an increased focus on issues of survivorship. Sexual function can be impacted by anatomical and hormonal changes, psychological concerns, and body image disruption following cancer treatments. In addition, cancer treatments and their sequelae can have devastating impact on fertility for individuals who have not yet completed planned childbearing. While some of these problems are acute, others are chronic and outlast many of the most common survivorship concerns (e.g., fatigue, psychological distress, insomnia). Although these problems are common and distressing, discussions of these concerns are rarely initiated by survivors or their providers. This chapter reviews common concerns related to sexuality and fertility among male and female cancer survivors, as well as special considerations for pediatric cancer survivors. It also provides a review of evidence-based interventions for sexual problems and fertility preservation.