Communication Gaps About Sexual Issues in Ovarian Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Stead M L, Brown J M, Fallowfield L, Selby P
Primary Institution: National Cancer Research Network Co-ordinating Centre
Hypothesis
Why do healthcare professionals not discuss sexual matters with women who have ovarian cancer?
Conclusion
Healthcare professionals often avoid discussing sexual issues with women diagnosed with ovarian cancer, despite recognizing that many patients experience sexual problems.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 70% of healthcare professionals believed that sexual problems would affect women with ovarian cancer.
- Only 21% of healthcare professionals discussed sexual issues with their patients.
- Women expressed a strong desire for information about how cancer affects sexual functioning.
Takeaway
Doctors and nurses often don't talk about sex with women who have ovarian cancer, even though many women have questions and concerns about it.
Methodology
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals and women with ovarian cancer to assess communication about sexual issues.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the small sample size and localized nature of the study.
Limitations
The study was conducted in a single city and may not reflect broader attitudes across the UK.
Participant Demographics
15 women aged 42-71, median age 56; 16 doctors (11 males, 5 females) and 27 nurses (2 males, 25 females).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website