Online Resource Improves Sexual Wellbeing Following Cancer Treatment

A world-first online resource, called Rekindle, is set to improve the sexual wellbeing of cancer survivors experiencing negative sexual changes after treatment.
More than 40 per cent of all cancer survivors experience negative sexual changes after treatment, with this percentage dramatically rising to over 90 per cent in survivors treated for  prostate cancer, ovarian cancer and cervical cancer.
New research found that 50 per cent of cancer survivors did not seek help for their sexual concerns, citing embarrassment and lack of privacy as the main barriers.
"Cancer can take its toll, but it doesn't have to take away your sexuality. Cancer survivors and their partners have identified sexual concerns and they're not getting the help they need to address them," said Dr Catalina Lawsin from the University of Sydney's School of Psychology.
Fatigue, pain, physical discomfort, impotence and anxiety can greatly impact a survivor's sexual wellbeing, and if it isn't dealt with problems can escalate, reducing their self-esteem and intimate relationships.
To address this, the University of Sydney and Cancer Council NSW have developed  Rekindle.
"Rekindle offers a wide range of tools and practical advice - whether that is information on the side effects of treatments, overcoming fear and insecurity, how to communicate better with your partner to help you feel better about you and your relationships or practical advice on the use and availability of sex aids," said Annie Miller from Cancer Council NSW.
There are 12 versions of Rekindle tailored to gender, relationship status and sexual orientation and the program is self led, allowing people to access it in the privacy of their own homes.