Partnership, sexuality, and fertility-related communication: findings from a register-based study among long-term hematological cancer survivors

Purpose Even though the number of hematological cancer survivors suffering from long-term and late consequences of their disease is growing, knowledge about their situation regarding partnership, sexuality, and fertility-related communication is sparse to date.Methods We recruited survivors of hematological malignancies (>= 3 years after diagnosis) from two cancer registries in Germany. We applied validated instruments and study-specific items on satisfaction with partnership, sexual functioning, and fertility-related communication with physicians. We provided descriptive statistics and conducted multiple regression analyses to identify associations of the outcomes with patient factors and well-being (anxiety, depression, and quality of life).Results Of 2001 eligible survivors, 922 (46%) participated. Fifty-seven percent were male, and the mean age was 64 years. Ninety percent and 60% reported to be satisfied with their partnership and sexual life, respectively. However, 81% and 86% reported being sexually impaired by physical or mental symptoms, respectively. Seventy-four percent of those with incomplete family planning had a fertility-related conversation with a physician. Female gender (p < .05, Beta = - .09), older age (p < .01, Beta = .10), and chemotherapy (p < .01, Beta = .10) were associated with less sexual pleasure caused by physical impairment. Satisfaction with partnership (p < .001, Beta = .22), satisfaction with sexual life (p < .001, Beta = .28), and conversation about fertility (p < .05, Beta = .26) were associated with better quality of life.Conclusion Even though long-term survivors seem to be generally satisfied with their partnership and sexual life, they may suffer from specific impairments. Our findings need to be verified in longitudinal studies.

Automated summary

This research investigated the situation of hematological cancer survivors regarding partnership, sexuality, and fertility-related communication. The results showed that most survivors were satisfied with their partnership and sexual life, but some experienced sexual impairments due to physical or mental symptoms. Factors related to quality of life included satisfaction with partnership, satisfaction with sexual life, and conversation about fertility with physicians. These findings need to be confirmed in longitudinal studies.