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Reproductive Health and Cancer in Adolescents and Young Adults pp 61–76Cite as

Sexual Health During Cancer Treatment

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Part of the book series: Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology ((AEMB,volume 732))

Abstract

Managing the sexual health of cancer patients has become an increasingly important component of providing comprehensive cancer care. Young adults, those from late adolescence to age 29–39, depending on the author and definition, remain a unique challenge as sexual health is intertwined with the critical developmental tasks of gaining sense of self and one’s personal identity, forming healthy intimate relationships and accomplishing important milestones in the transition from child to mature adult. Unfortunately, much of what is known about this population is gleaned primarily from survivors of childhood cancer [1].

Heather is a 26 year old single, grade school teacher diagnosed 4 months ago with Stage II breast cancer in her right breast. Initially she was treated with a lumpectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy with 2 lymph nodes positive for cancer. She began chemotherapy 1 month following her surgery. When she completes this therapy, she will receive radiation therapy to the affected breast and then it is recommended that she take Tamoxifen for 5 years to decrease her risk for recurrence. She was provided with information about the fertility effects related to her treatment, but still hopes to have a family once all treatment is completed. Heather has had several relationships, but is currently not seeing anyone. She is thinking about the prospects of dating again, but is concerned about how she will tell someone that she has had breast cancer or that she may not be able to have children. She has heard that women who have been treated for breast cancer have lots of problems with sexual activity and that she may never be able to find a partner. She is very concerned and wonders what to do.

Heather, Adult Cancer Patient

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Colorado Denver, College of Nursing Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA

    Linda U. Krebs PhD, RN, AOCN, FAAN

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  1. Linda U. Krebs PhD, RN, AOCN, FAAN
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Correspondence to Linda U. Krebs PhD, RN, AOCN, FAAN .

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  1. Moffitt Cancer Center, Magnolia Drive 12902, Tampa, 33612, Florida, USA

    Gwendolyn P. Quinn

  2. Moffitt Cancer Center, Magnolia Drive 12902, Tampa, 33612, Florida, USA

    Susan T. Vadaparampil

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Krebs, L.U. (2012). Sexual Health During Cancer Treatment. In: Quinn, G., Vadaparampil, S. (eds) Reproductive Health and Cancer in Adolescents and Young Adults. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, vol 732. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-2492-1_5

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