Aims: Despite growing recognition of sexual health as an important component of cancer survivorship, gaps in communication and information provision persist within routine oncology care. This study aimed to understand the experiences and preferences of breast and gynaecological cancer survivors regarding sexual health information and support.
Methods: A mixed-methods study comprising a cross-sectional survey and semi-structured interviews was conducted among women aged ≥18 years with breast or gynaecological cancer attending Cork University Hospital, Cork University Maternity Hospital, and South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Ireland. Participants were recruited February to April 2025 through oncology clinics, multidisciplinary team meetings, cancer support services, healthcare professionals, and social media. The survey explored sexual health experiences, information received, information-seeking behaviours, and preferences for the timing and delivery of sexual health information. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively and interview data underwent thematic analysis.
Results: A total of 104 participants completed the survey and 11 participated in interviews. Overall, 81.1% reported sexual health concerns during or after cancer treatment. More than 60% received no information regarding treatment-related sexual health effects, over 80% felt their sexual health had not been adequately addressed, and over 75% were unaware of available treatment options. Survey and interview findings demonstrated that sexual health was not routinely discussed, with conversations often limited to fertility and contraception. Participants preferred clinicians to initiate and revisit discussions throughout treatment and survivorship, supported by in-person consultations and reliable written and online resources.
Conclusions: Female cancer survivors reported substantial unmet sexual health information needs despite the high prevalence of treatment-related concerns. Participants identified clear priorities for improving survivorship care, including proactive clinician-initiated communication, repeated opportunities to discuss sexual health, and flexible information delivery. These findings provide a foundation for implementing sexual health as a routine component of cancer survivorship care and translating evidence into routine clinical practice