Sexual functioning of testicular cancer survivors and their partners - A review of literature

Background: Testicular cancer (TC) is the most common cancer in the 25-40 age group, with peak morbidity at around 30 years of age. It is a period of highest productivity, when sexual sphere is an important aspect of life. The disease, invasive treatment and its consequences interfere with this sphere. Aim: The aim of this paper was to review the most recent studies on the sexual functioning of patients treated for testicular cancer and their partners published in English language scientific journals in the period of 1989-2010. Results: Numerous studies report that men cured from testicular cancer are at risk of sexual disorders. Agents of psychological nature play an important role in the occurrence and persistence of sexual dysfunctions. Being in permanent relationship is a protective factor, while single persons are marked with particular predisposition to such dysfunctions. Sexual and marital satisfaction of TC survivors and their partners are mutually correlated. Conclusion: With a growing number of TC survivors, a thorough investigation is required into their sexuality, both in an individual and dyadic dimension, so as to improve the quality of life of the affected young men, who take on their new social and professional roles in the period of highest reproductiveness. (C) 2011 Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poland. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z.o.o. All rights reserved.