MPROVING THE SEXUAL WELL-BEING AND SATISFACTION OF MEN WITH PROSTATE CANCER AND THEIR PARTNERS.
Vissarion Bakalis
Tuesday, October 1, 2024
Publication year:
2024
Author:
- Bakalis Vissarion, RN, MSc, Nurse, IASO THESSALIAS
Keywords index:
Pages: 308-313
Abstract:
Introduction: Sexual well-being is a critical factor in the quality of life of patients undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. Despite advances in therapeutic methods, many men experience sexual dysfunctions, such as erectile dysfunction and reduced libido, which affect their psychosocial functioning. These effects also extend to their relationships with their partners, overall impacting their sexual well-being.
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate ways to improve sexual wellbeing and satisfaction of men receiving treatment for prostate cancer and their partners.
Methodology: A literature search of scientific articles in the electronic databases Medline (PubMed) and Scopus was conducted over the last 10 years. During the search, the keywords: sexual well-being; partners; prostate cancer as well as synonyms and combination of terms were used.
Results: Most men report erectile dysfunction and reduced sexual desire as the main effects of treatments, while their partners express feelings of frustration and uncertainty about their sexual relationship. In addition, patients report a significant decrease in self-esteem and body image, which negatively affects the quality of their relationship with their partners. Therapeutic interventions aimed at improving sexual function, such as drug therapies and sexual psychotherapy, appear to have limited effectiveness, and the need for more individualized and supportive treatment strategies is strongly felt.
Conclusions: This study demonstrates the serious impact that prostate cancer and related treatments have on the sexual well-being and satisfaction of patients and their partners. Treatments for prostate cancer significantly affect sexual function, self-esteem and couple relationships, making the need for better support, information and personalized care imperative. Integrating psychological support and sexual rehabilitation into treatment strategies could improve patients' quality of life and enhance couples' sexual well-being.
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