The Sexual and Emotional Life Experiences Reported by Brazilian Men with Head and Neck Cancer at a Public University Hospital: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

AbstractThis study explored the sexual and emotional experiences of male patients with head and neck cancer. This study utilized a clinical-qualitative method. Twelve patients with head and neck cancer were recruited to participate in the research through in-depth semi-directed interviews with open-ended questions recorded. Data was collected at the radiotherapy of a Brazilian hospital. All patients demonstrated negative impacts on the dynamics of affective and sexual relationships caused by a serious disease. Data revealed that impacts mainly affect “The felt/lived body”, and “The affective-sexual body”. Requiring, then, an “Elaboration of the grief of the bodily and sexual changes”. Considering, evaluating and proposing care for a sexual and emotional aspects of patients with head and neck cancer is essential for the creation and implementation of comprehensive health measures, especially in terms of quality of life for patients.