Maureen Reynolds, BA, BEd, MA
Sociology, University of Windsor
Windsor, ON
Dale Rajacich, PhD
Faculty of Nursing, University of Windsor
Windsor, ON
Eleanor Maticka-Tyndale, PhD
Sociology, University of Windsor
Windsor, ON
Purpose of Study: To explore women’s sexuality after treatment for cervical cancer.
Rationale and Significance: As more and more women survive cervical cancer, it is imperative that issues of sexuality are addressed with them. Recent research indicates that women with cancer are not receiving adequate information regarding sexual health after treatment. Healthy sexuality is essential for all persons and as health care advocates we must ask women how the effects of treatment impact their sexual health and ultimately quality of life.
Method: In depth interviews about the experience of sexuality were conducted with eleven women, all of whom had completed cervical cancer treatment at a regional cancer centre in Canada. All interviews took place within 5 years of completing treatment.
Results: Most women said they would prefer not to engage in sex at all. Women spoke of pain and bleeding during intercourse that continued over a number of years. Women in long term relationships engaged in sexual activity citing partner needs as their motivation. All women believed that intercourse is necessary for sexual intimacy. Health care providers, although helpful, were not equipped to deal with issues of sexuality and the emotional impact of their physical and sexual changes. Women stated they did not receive enough helpful information to prepare them for sexuality changes post treatment.
Conclusions: Women need more information, support, and resources regarding the physical, sexual, and emotional changes experienced as a result of treatment for cervical cancer.