Screening for Sexual Health Concerns in Patients with Gynecologic Malignancy

Abstract

Individuals living with gynecologic cancer frequently experience sexual health problems, although these issues are often not addressed by the medical team. This article offers an overview of different tools available to evaluate sexual health in patients with cancer, and more specifically, gynecologic cancer. A literature search was conducted using the PubMed® search engine. Article titles and abstracts were reviewed for relevancy, with four screening tools ultimately selected for further evaluation. Tools discussed include the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Sexual Health Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-SH22), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Sexual function – Vaginal Changes Questionnaire (SVQ), and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System ® Sexual Function and Satisfaction (PROMIS ® SexFS). While all measurement tools reviewed offer strengths and limitations, this article posits that the PROMIS ® SexFS offers the most promise for both research and clinical use in this population.