title: Sexuality and romantic relationships in young adult cancer survivors: satisfaction and supportive care needs.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In recent years, psycho-oncology has focused more and more on adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYA). Many studies have concentrated on fertility issues in AYAs, but romantic relationships and sexuality have only been researched to a limited extent. This cross-sectional study examined AYAs' quality of relationships and sexuality satisfaction thereby identifying sex differences.
  
  
  METHODS
  Ninety-nine cancer patients (N = 33 males) diagnosed between 15 and 39 years who were in a romantic relationship at the time of the survey completed questionnaires on their relationship (Partnership Questionnaire), sexuality (Life Satisfaction Questionnaire), and sexuality needs (Supportive Care Needs Survey). Test for mean differences and regression analyses to determine associated variables were performed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Seventy-six percent of AYAs (N = 75) rated their relationship quality as high. About 64% of patients reported having less sexual intercourse since diagnosis, more women than men (72% vs. 45%; p = .011). The need for support was strongest for changes in sexual feelings (N = 38; 38.3%). Duration of relationship (β = -0.224), being on sick leave (β = 0.325), and satisfaction with sexuality (β = 0.409) were associated with satisfaction with relationship (R(2)  = 0.256). Satisfaction with sexuality (R(2)  = 0.344) was regressed on physical function (β = 0.419), satisfaction with relationship (β = 0.428), and male gender (β = -0.175). Sexuality need (R(2)  = 0.436) was associated with fatigue (β = 0.232) and satisfaction with sexuality (β = -0.522).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Although they reported high satisfaction with their relationships, AYA patients experienced sexual problems and need support with sexual issues. As a substantial proportion of patients felt stressed because of sexual changes, communication and interventions addressing post-cancer sexuality, particularly in women, are indicated.
authors.affiliation: University of Leipzig, Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
authors.forename: Kristina
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Geue
authors.affiliation: Leipzig University Medical Center, Integrated Research and Treatment Center Adiposity Diseases, Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 27, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
authors.forename: Ricarda
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Schmidt
authors.affiliation: University of Leipzig, Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
authors.forename: Annekathrin
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Sender
authors.affiliation: Rehabilitation Clinic for Children with their Families, Youngsters and Young Adults, Oberkatzensteig 11, 78141, Schönwald im Schwarzwald, Germany.
authors.forename: Siegfried
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Sauter
authors.affiliation: University of Leipzig, Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Friedrich
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D019529:Sexuality / Q000523:psychology*; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D017741:Survivors / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D055815:Young Adult