Despite significant progress in cancer treatment and sexual health research, women continue to report that their concerns are being dismissed by healthcare providers. While this issue affects women of all ages and backgrounds, it is particularly prevalent among those who have undergone cancer treatment.
Cancer treatment can have a profound impact on a woman’s sexual health, including changes to libido, vaginal dryness, and pain during intercourse. Yet many healthcare providers still fail to address these issues, leaving women feeling isolated and unsupported.
Fortunately, there are resources available to help women navigate these challenges. One such resource is the Sexual Health Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, which offers a range of services designed to help women manage the sexual side effects of cancer treatment.
The program includes individual counseling sessions with trained sexual health specialists, as well as group workshops and support groups. There are also educational materials available to help women better understand the physical and emotional changes they may experience as a result of cancer treatment.
In addition to seeking out specialized programs like the one at Memorial Sloan Kettering, women can take several steps to advocate for themselves when it comes to their sexual health. This may include preparing a list of questions to ask healthcare providers, seeking out second opinions, and connecting with other women who have gone through similar experiences.
It is important to note that while progress has been made in recent years, there is still much work to be done to ensure that women’s sexual health concerns are taken seriously and addressed appropriately. By raising awareness of these issues and advocating for change, we can begin to create a more supportive and inclusive healthcare system for all women.
