The impact of advanced cancer on sexual health and relationships: A qualitative study on patient and partner perspectives.

Abstract

Sexual health is a significant aspect of health-related quality of life. Impaired sexual health adversely affects the well-being and relationship between cancer patients and their partners. To investigate the attitudes and perceptions of sexual health among advanced cancer patients and partners, and the impact of cancer on sexual health in the Asian context. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to the data collected from semi-structured face-to-face interviews, which were transcribed verbatim. Stage 3 and 4 cancer patients and partners were recruited at the oncology outpatient clinic in Malaysia. Eighteen patients (13 [72%] female, median age 38.5 (interquartile range 17.5) years and nine partners (8 [89%] male, median age 33 (interquartile range 15) years were interviewed. Main themes include: (1) physical intimacy remains a vital part of the relationship, (2) impact of cancer on sexual desire, activity and satisfaction, (3) impact of cancer on patient-partner relationship, (4) changes in perceptions of body image, attractiveness and self-esteem, and (5) patient-partner coping mechanisms. Most participants perceived both physical and emotional intimacy as important and felt their relationship improved post-cancer due to better communication and more support from their partners. Coping strategies include acceptance of their illness, prioritising cancer control over sexual needs, and finding meaning through spirituality. Although cancer can reduce sexual desire and satisfaction, sexual health and relationship well-being can be maintained through emotional and physical intimacy, improved communication, companionship and support, and psycho-spiritual coping strategies. Further research is needed to develop sexual health interventions that are culturally adaptable and effective across diverse populations.