Cancer & Sexuality: Breaking Taboos at Luna Palace
Cancer and Sexuality: Workshop Aims to break Taboos
LEON, Spain (AP) — “Women have the right to a fulfilling sex life, and that begins with open discussion about the challenges they face.” So says Dr. Ana López, an oncologist at León Hospital and recipient of the women’s Award 2024. López is coordinating a workshop for patients titled, “Sex and Cancer in Women: And Now What?” The workshop, in collaboration with Novartis laboratory, is scheduled for Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at the Conde luna Palace.
Addressing the Unspoken Impacts of Cancer
More than 100 individuals, including patients and their companions, have registered for the second edition of this workshop. Mónica González, head of the Women’s Sexual Dysfunction Unit at the Puigvert Foundation in Barcelona, will participate. González has dedicated over 20 years to sexology,according to López. Also participating is the La Higuera patient association, a group of young women who sought details about sexuality after their cancer experiences, and Paralympic athlete Miriam Martínez, who will share her story of resilience and discuss the enjoyment of sex from various perspectives.
Dr. López will also present patient guides developed by Novartis, in collaboration with patients and other professionals. These guides address practical concerns such as nutrition, exercise, sexuality, and other aspects of self-care.
Open Dialog on Sexual health
The workshop aims to openly address the side effects of cancer and its treatments on patients’ sexual health. These effects can include loss of libido, vaginal dryness, fear, and diminished self-esteem due to physical changes.”We wont them to know that their experiences are normal,” López told The Associated press. “And that there are solutions available.”
Available Treatments and Therapies
López mentioned several options, including sexual therapy, vaginal moisturizers, lubricants, and local estrogen. She also noted the existence of other local therapies, such as laser treatment and hyaluronic acid, though these are not currently available at León Hospital. The hospital is working to enhance collaboration with the Gynecology Service to provide patients with comprehensive advice.
Breaking Down barriers
Dr. López and her team strive to provide not only medical solutions but also a supportive environment for patients. López acknowledged that a taboo surrounding these issues exists among both patients and healthcare professionals. “By initiating conversations about the potential side effects of treatments on their sexual well-being, we’ve begun to break down the barriers between doctors, nurses, and patients, encouraging them to seek consultations on these matters,” López said. She emphasizes the importance of open communication, stating that “what is not spoken of does not exist,” and supports initiatives that encourage open dialogue.
Breast cancer treatment can lead to various side effects, including dry skin and mucous membranes, and can also affect sexual relationships.
Cancer adn Sexuality: Addressing the Impact and Finding Solutions
what is the “Sex and Cancer in Women: And Now What?” workshop about?
The workshop,coordinated by Dr. Ana López, an oncologist at León Hospital, aims to openly address the effects of cancer and its treatments on women’s sexual health. It’s designed to initiate conversations about these often-unspoken challenges and provide solutions. The workshop, in collaboration with Novartis, is the second edition of this event, with over 100 registered attendees, including patients and their companions.
Who is Dr. Ana López?
Dr. Ana López is an oncologist at León Hospital and a recipient of the Women’s Award 2024. She is the coordinator of the “Sex and Cancer in Women: And Now What?” workshop and is dedicated to helping women navigate the sexual health challenges that can arise from cancer and its treatment.
What challenges related to sex and cancer will the workshop address?
The workshop focuses on the side effects of cancer and cancer treatments on women’s sexual health. These can include:
- Loss of libido
- Vaginal dryness
- Fear
- Diminished self-esteem due to physical changes
What solutions are available for women experiencing these challenges?
Dr. López mentions several solutions:
- Sexual therapy
- Vaginal moisturizers
- Lubricants
- Local estrogen
are there other treatment options available?
Yes, Dr. López also notes the existence of other local therapies, such as laser treatment and hyaluronic acid, although these are not currently available at León hospital. the hospital is working to expand services through collaboration with the Gynecology Service to provide comprehensive advice.
Why is open interaction about sex and cancer so important?
Dr. López emphasizes that open communication is vital to breaking down the taboos surrounding these issues. She believes that “what is not spoken of does not exist” and that initiating conversations allows patients and healthcare professionals to address the challenges and find solutions together.It encourages individuals to seek consultations and feel supported.
Who else will be participating in the workshop?
The workshop will feature several guest speakers:
- Mónica González, Head of the Women’s Sexual Dysfunction Unit at the Puigvert Foundation in Barcelona, with over 20 years of experience in sexology.
- The La Higuera patient association, comprised of young women who have addressed sexuality after their cancer experiences.
- Miriam Martínez, a Paralympic athlete who will share her story of resilience and discuss the enjoyment of sex from a variety of perspectives.
What are patient guides and how can thay help?
Dr. López will present patient guides developed by Novartis, in collaboration with patients and other professionals. These guides address practical concerns, including:
- nutrition
- Exercise
- Sexuality
- Other aspects of self-care
What are the common side effects of breast cancer treatment beyond sexuality?
Breast cancer treatment can cause a variety of side effects, including:
- Dry skin
- Dry mucous membranes
- Issues that can affect sexual relationships
How can I find out more about similar resources and support?
Dr. López and her team are working to create a supportive environment. Encourage patients to openly discuss their concerns with their healthcare providers. Seek resources from your local hospital or patient support groups. The workshop itself, and the patient guides presented, offer excellent starting points.
Summary of Available Therapies
Here’s a summary of the treatments discussed in the article:
| Treatment Type | Description | Availability at León Hospital |
|---|---|---|
| Sexual Therapy | Therapy to address sexual dysfunction and improve sexual health. | Mentioned as available |
| Vaginal Moisturizers | Products to combat vaginal dryness. | Mentioned as available |
| Lubricants | Products to reduce friction and discomfort during sexual activity. | Mentioned as available |
| Local Estrogen | Medication to relieve vaginal dryness and other menopausal symptoms. | Mentioned as available |
| Laser Treatment | Advanced therapy for vaginal health. | Not currently available |
| Hyaluronic Acid | Therapy for vaginal rejuvenation. | not currently available |