Introduction/Background Treatment for pelvic cancer results in various late adverse effects, many of which can be detrimental to sexual health. Sexual counseling includes interventions aimed at ameliorating these. The objective of this study was to explore how cancer survivors perceived the value of sexual counseling.

Methodology Data for this descriptive qualitative study was collected through 10 semistructured interviews with patients treated for pelvic cancer. A qualitative thematic analysis was performed to inductively construct descriptive themes.

Results Twelve descriptive themes under 3 theoretical themes emerged: ‘The changed life’ encompassed feelings of loss, grief and abandonment related to sexuality. ‘The systemic possibilities and barriers’ examined the relevance, characteristics, process, and accessibility of sexual counseling. ‘The informants’ possibilities and barriers’ explored acceptance, coping, efforts to practice, and sexual renegotiations in relation to the individual’s ability to profit from counseling.

• Download figure
• Open in new tab
• Download powerpoint

Abstract #463 Figure 1

Inter link beween the system and the cancer survivor

Conclusion Clinicians are obliged to inquire about sexual late adverse effects, and referral to sexual counseling should be offered as a standard following treatment for pelvic cancer. Most informants in this study sought to maintain their ability to engage in penetrative sex. Not being able to do so, affected self esteem and relationship dynamics negatively. Accepting and coping with the permanency of sexual late adverse effects is a complex and continuous process. The process is affected by interlinked factors, both within the cancer survivor and their intimate relationship, and within the system offering sexual counseling. Ideally, sexual counseling should facilitate this process and support survivors in expanding their sexual repertoire. However, to ensure therapeutic alliance, counselors must first elucidate what the survivor hopes to gain from treatment and start from there. This requires an open minded and empathic bio-psycho-social approach, as well as professional skills within the realm of sexual rehabilitation and sexual aids. Regular and prescheduled follow-up visits are vital to ensure progress and treatment satisfaction.

Disclosures No disclosures