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Background <p>Sexual dysfunction is a prevalent problem among cancer survivors that is frequently disregarded. Prostate cancer survivors experience erectile dysfunction in 14–90% of instances, whereas 90% of women treated for gynaecologic cancer report considerable impairment. The incidence and kind of dysfunction varies by cancer type and treatment. Factors influencing sexual dysfunction include biological, psychological, interpersonal, and sociocultural elements, necessitating a biopsychosocial approach to treatment.</p> Aim <p>We aimed to offer an evidence-based approach towards addressing and treating sexual dysfunction in an Indian scenario.</p> Methods <p>A narrative review was carried out of all the relevant literature comprising of all the appropriate findings from searches of computerized databases.</p> Discussion <p>Sexual health is impacted by biological variables like menopause, hormonal changes, and adverse effects from treatments like erectile dysfunction and vaginismus. Anxiety, depression, body image problems, and psychological anguish along with relationship dynamics and other interpersonal elements are important, particularly in situations like mastectomies or colorectal operations. Sociocultural issues, such as the stigma associated with discussing sexual health, tend to exacerbate the situation. Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFMT) has shown significant improvement in enhancing muscle strength and reducing pain during intercourse. Regular physical activity, including yoga and core exercises, also supports sexual health by improving cardiovascular fitness and reducing stress. Other interventions, like sexual counselling and behavioural changes, can address issues related to body image, arousal disorders, and intimacy.</p> Conclusion <p>Despite the importance of sexual health, there are challenges such as societal stigma, myths, and discomfort in discussing sexual issues. A multidisciplinary approach, including healthcare providers like psychologists, sex therapists, and pelvic floor specialists, is essential for addressing these unmet needs and improving survivors’ quality of life.</p>

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Addressing Sexual Dysfunction in Indian Cancer Survivors: Unmet Needs and Role of Physical Therapy

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年4月12日

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  • Pawar Nikita,
  • Shrestha Asmita

摘要

Background

Sexual dysfunction is a prevalent problem among cancer survivors that is frequently disregarded. Prostate cancer survivors experience erectile dysfunction in 14–90% of instances, whereas 90% of women treated for gynaecologic cancer report considerable impairment. The incidence and kind of dysfunction varies by cancer type and treatment. Factors influencing sexual dysfunction include biological, psychological, interpersonal, and sociocultural elements, necessitating a biopsychosocial approach to treatment.

Aim

We aimed to offer an evidence-based approach towards addressing and treating sexual dysfunction in an Indian scenario.

Methods

A narrative review was carried out of all the relevant literature comprising of all the appropriate findings from searches of computerized databases.

Discussion

Sexual health is impacted by biological variables like menopause, hormonal changes, and adverse effects from treatments like erectile dysfunction and vaginismus. Anxiety, depression, body image problems, and psychological anguish along with relationship dynamics and other interpersonal elements are important, particularly in situations like mastectomies or colorectal operations. Sociocultural issues, such as the stigma associated with discussing sexual health, tend to exacerbate the situation. Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFMT) has shown significant improvement in enhancing muscle strength and reducing pain during intercourse. Regular physical activity, including yoga and core exercises, also supports sexual health by improving cardiovascular fitness and reducing stress. Other interventions, like sexual counselling and behavioural changes, can address issues related to body image, arousal disorders, and intimacy.

Conclusion

Despite the importance of sexual health, there are challenges such as societal stigma, myths, and discomfort in discussing sexual issues. A multidisciplinary approach, including healthcare providers like psychologists, sex therapists, and pelvic floor specialists, is essential for addressing these unmet needs and improving survivors’ quality of life.