In terms of sexuality, older cancer survivors are not much different from their cancer-free counterparts. But they may be more likely to feel dissatisfied with their sex lives, according to the results of a 2016 study.
Published by the journal Cancer, the study investigated the sexual function of people age 50 or older living in the United Kingdom.
Cancer and its treatment can lead to a variety of sexual challenges, including erectile dysfunction (ED) in men and vaginal dryness in women. But aging can also have impact sexuality. The study authors wanted to know how the sexual function of older cancer survivors compared to that of older people in general. People tend to be older when they are diagnosed with cancer, and they may survive five to ten years, or even longer. Learning more about the sexual health of this age group can help doctors understand their patients’ needs.
Almost 6,700 people (2,982 men and 3,708 women) completed an assessment called the Sexual Relationships and Activities Questionnaire. They answered questions about their relationships and partners, sexual attitudes and concerns, and the types and frequency of their sexual activities (such as kissing, petting, and intercourse). They also revealed how sexually satisfied they had been during the previous three months.
Seven percent of the men and 9% of the women had been diagnosed with cancer. About three-quarters of cancer survivors had been diagnosed five or more years prior to the survey.
When the researchers compared the sexual activities and function of the cancer survivors and the cancer-free group, they found many similarities. For example, roughly half the women in each group said they had intercourse frequently. Degrees of sexual problems were about the same as well.
However, sexual dissatisfaction was markedly different. Eighteen percent of female cancer survivors said they were dissatisfied, compared to 12% of cancer-free women. Male cancer survivors had higher dissatisfaction rates too: 31% compared to 20% for men without cancer. It wasn’t clear why the survivors were less satisfied.
Women who had been diagnosed within the previous five years were more likely to have problems with desire, arousal, and orgasms. But this result was not found among the men.
“On the whole, our results are generally encouraging,” the authors wrote. “A diagnosis of cancer does not seem to affect whether or not people have sex, how often they have sex, what they do when they have sex, and (in the case of men) their sexual function.”
But they called for more research on sexual dissatisfaction rates and poorer sexual function in women with recent cancer diagnoses.
Resources
Cancer
Jackson, Sarah E, PhD, et al.
“Sexuality after a cancer diagnosis: A population‐based study”
(Full-text. Published online: August 16, 2016)
You may also be interested in...
Other Popular Articles
What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?
The term “jelqing” refers to a set of penis stretching exercises that some believe can make the penis bigger. Although the practice has gained attention and popularity in blogs and internet forums in recent years, there is no scientific evidence that it is an effective way to permanently increase the size of one’s penis. In fact, in some cases, jelqing may actually cause damage to the penis, so it is a good idea to get all the facts before setting off to try it.
What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?
Sensate focus is a technique used to improve intimacy and communication between partners around sex, reduce sexual performance anxiety, and shift away from ingrained, goal-oriented sexual patterns that may not be serving a couple.
What Is the Average Penis Size?
If you have ever wondered how your penis compares to others in terms of size, you are not alone. Many men are curious to know how their penises stack up compared to the average. Unfortunately, general curiosity can sometimes give way to full-on obsession and anxiety about penis size. This can be an unhealthy and often unnecessary fixation, especially because most men who think their penises are too small have perfectly normal-sized penises.
What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?
Edging is the practice of stopping sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm to prolong a sexual experience. The term stems from the concept of approaching the metaphorical “edge” of orgasm but stopping before going over the edge.
Can Sex Throw off Your Vaginal pH Balance?
The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.
Your vagina is a pretty powerful organ. It is a pathway for menstrual blood and babies. It also is a main player in sexual intercourse. You might hear about your vagina’s pH and worry that yours is at risk. Here’s what to know about vaginal pH, including the impacts sex could have.
Can Sex Reduce Menstrual Cramps?
The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.
Having sex while you experience menstrual cramps is healthy and can provide significant benefits. While it might not be the first activity that comes to mind when your PMS or period cramping begins, many people enjoy sex to reduce menstrual cramps, experience increased pleasure and benefit from other advantages. Learn more about having sex while menstrual cramps are happening and how it can help your body.
