This section begins with a consideration of sexual concerns in general and how to assess needs. It then continues with a focus on females’ concerns followed by males. Each section will consider the effects of specific cancers and their treatment on sexual health and then continue to provide an overview of interventions.

Sexual consequences related to cancer treatment are common (Kennedy and Leiserowitz [139]). These consequences may be physical, psychological, social and spiritual or a combination of these. The manifestation of these concerns and subsequent optimal management will depend on the type of cancer, cancer treatment, patient's age and relational status.

Sexual consequences are caused by a variety of physical and psychological factors. Sexual inactivity may not indicate a sexual problem, however reduced sexual satisfaction, distress or intimacy/sexual avoidance may indicate sexual health concerns. Sexual difficulties may include loss of sexual interest/desire, arousal and sexual pain difficulties, orgasmic difficulties and reduced sexual satisfaction/confidence. These consequences may develop during or soon after treatment, or in some cases many years later. An understanding of oncological sexual consequences, assessment and early and multifaceted interventions can support individuals living with sexual consequences from cancer diagnosis and treatment (LCA [148]).