Sexual Problems in Patients with Cancer

An insight into the issue of sexuality in terms of cancer seems to be contradictory. However, it is very important to consider sexual problems that potentially arise in these patients as well as the consequent psychosocial problems that stem from the loss or impairment of this fundamental function. Sexuality is strongly associated with quality of life and, therefore, sexual problems in oncologic patients should be discussed early during the disease course rather than be neglected. Solutions should be sought for the couple as a unit rather than be dealt with as a patient-specific affair. Despite the changed body shape and other compromised factors, the patient and the partner may still need sex, which in turn may have a positive influence on the disease course. The situation is even worse if sexual organs are directly involved by the tumor growth or the necessitated treatment application, as it is often the case in breast or prostate cancer. In some cancer types, in particular, prostate cancer, it is of crucial importance to start early counseling and treatment in order to preserve the maximal possible degree of sexual function or develop it again if lost with specific treatment. The following chapter presents a practical guideline pointing out the importance of early counseling and interdisciplinary coworking.