Description
This sexual health specialist course will improve provider knowledge and confidence related to addressing and screening for sexual health side effects in patients impacted by cancer. This course includes 14.25 hours of content.
Patients benefit when their providers normalize the conversation, set expectations, evaluate and treat common concerns in the clinic, and refer to other specialists timely when necessary.
| Breast Cancer Patient- Ann Wolf | In this informative talk, Ann Wolf, a women’s health nurse practitioner, shares her extensive experience in caring for breast cancer patients. She emphasizes the emotional turmoil patients face upon diagnosis and the importance of building trust and providing reassurance. The discussion covers the various treatment modalities, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, along with their side effects and reconstruction options. |
| APP Course Intro Video | The video emphasizes the importance of addressing sexual health during the cancer journey, highlighting its impact on patients’ sexual function, body image, and self-esteem. The course aims to equip healthcare providers with the necessary tools to initiate conversations about sexual health and evaluate patients’ concerns effectively. |
| Dr. Laila Agrawal- Sexual Health Concerns After Cancer Treatment | The video emphasizes the importance of addressing sexual health concerns for women after cancer treatment, as these issues are often overlooked by medical professionals. It highlights that cancer treatments can lead to menopause-like symptoms and surgeries that affect sexual function and pleasure. Body image issues and low libido are common challenges that can negatively impact mental health. |
| Evaluating the Patient | The module delves into the essential components of patient evaluation, emphasizing the importance of gathering patient information and conducting lab tests. It highlights the Calgary Cambridge model for effective clinical conversations, particularly in discussing sensitive topics like sexual health. Providers are encouraged to adopt a patient-centered approach, ensuring a shared understanding of issues and collaborative planning. Key skills such as active listening, respectful communication, and understanding the patient’s perspective are underscored. The module also outlines specific lab tests related to sexual interest and arousal disorders. |
| Surveillance of Gynecologic Cancer | In this presentation, Nikki Goff, a nurse practitioner specializing in gynecologic oncology, emphasizes the importance of addressing sexual health in patients recovering from gynecologic cancer. She discusses common post-treatment symptoms and the necessity of establishing rapport with patients to facilitate open conversations about intimacy and sexuality. With a significant percentage of women experiencing sexual health issues after treatment, Nikki highlights the need for thorough medical histories and specific screening questions during surveillance visits. She also provides practical recommendations for managing symptoms, including the use of vaginal moisturizers and dilators. |
| Post Prostate Cancer Treatment | The video discusses the impact of prostate cancer on men’s health, particularly focusing on the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) following treatment. It highlights the importance of addressing sexual dysfunction, as many men desire information about it before undergoing treatment. Various treatment options, including robotic surgery and penile rehabilitation, aim to restore erectile function while considering both physiological and psychological factors. The video emphasizes the need for patient and partner involvement in the recovery process, as well as the establishment of support systems to alleviate anxiety and improve communication. Ultimately, it advocates for a comprehensive approach to managing ED to enhance the quality of life for men post-treatment. |
| Evaulting the Patient with Erectile Problem | In this video, Dr. Amy Pearlman, a urologist and mental specialist, takes on the role of a doctor assessing a patient with erectile issues. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the patient’s history, including any previous treatments, and discusses potential underlying causes such as testosterone deficiency and heart disease. Dr. Pearlman highlights the need for a thorough examination and lab work, including kidney function tests, to identify contributing factors. She also addresses the impact of certain medications, like antidepressants and opioids, on sexual health. |
| Addressing Sexual Health is Valuable to Practice | The video explores the evolving definitions of men’s health, emphasizing that it encompasses more than just sexual dysfunction. It highlights the confusion surrounding men’s health perceptions and the importance of addressing underlying health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes, which are often linked to erectile dysfunction. Many men neglect their health needs and avoid seeking medical care, leading to missed opportunities for treatment. Ultimately, engaging men in understanding their health can lead to better management of conditions like erectile dysfunction and improve overall health outcomes. |
| Supporting Sexual Health without Stereotypes | The video explores the role of anthropologists in understanding human behavior through a holistic lens, particularly in the context of sexual health. It highlights the cultural taboos and stereotypes surrounding sex in the US, which often lead to a lack of open discussion in healthcare settings. Medical anthropology emphasizes the importance of addressing sexual health without reinforcing stereotypes, advocating for non-gendered language and patient-centered conversations. |
| Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction After Prostrate Cancer | The video discusses various treatment options for erectile dysfunction in men, particularly after prostate cancer. It highlights the use of oral medications, such as PDE5 inhibitors, and notes that patients may respond differently to these treatments. Other methods include penile constriction bands, vacuum erection devices, and injection therapies which do not rely on nerve function. Penile implants offer a permanent solution, while pelvic floor therapy and counseling can also aid recovery. The importance of educating patients about their options and the potential for improved sexual health post-treatment is emphasized. |
| LGBTQ+ Patients- Unique Risk Factors and Concerns | The video highlights the unique health risks and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in relation to cancer and sexual health. It discusses the significant barriers to healthcare access, with many LGBTQ+ individuals not seeking medical services due to fear or lack of cultural competency from providers. The impact of psychological stress on sexual satisfaction and the higher incidence of certain cancers, such as anal and cervical cancer, are emphasized. The importance of establishing trust and providing inclusive care through cultural competency training for healthcare providers is also addressed. Overall, the video advocates for better understanding and equitable access to healthcare for LGBTQ+ patients. |
| Practical Pointers for the LGBTQ+ Patient in Cancer Care | The video addresses the unique concerns of LGBTQ+ patients in cancer care, emphasizing the importance of understanding their specific needs and experiences. It highlights the significance of trauma-informed care and the necessity of sensitive communication regarding surgeries and hormone therapies. The speaker discusses the mental health challenges faced by different LGBTQ+ groups and the importance of open discussions about treatment impacts on sexuality. Five principles of trauma-informed care are introduced, focusing on safety, choice, collaboration, trustworthiness, and empowerment. |
| LGBTQ+ 101 and Healthcare Best Practices | This module is focused on LGBTQ identities and healthcare best practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding terminology and patient experiences. The course highlights the disparities faced by LGBTQ individuals in accessing healthcare, including the need for gender-affirming care and the use of correct pronouns. It stresses the significance of creating inclusive environments in healthcare settings and the necessity of using gender-neutral language. Also addressed are the unique healthcare needs of LGBTQ patients, particularly regarding cancer screenings and mental health. |
| Men’s Health- Sexual Dysfunction and Treatment | In a lively session, the speaker shares how a pivotal conversation about penile rehabilitation transformed their approach to patient care, highlighting the necessity of discussing sexual health openly. They stress the importance of patient-centered treatment, encouraging patients to communicate their needs and emphasizing that prolonged periods without erections can harm penile tissue. The speaker outlines various treatment options, including oral medications, vacuum pumps, penile injections, and implants, while underscoring the significance of patient education and managing expectations, as well as the importance of considering the partner’s perspective in treatment decisions. |
| Nutrition in the Oncology Setting | Mandy Minden, a registered dietitian, emphasizes the importance of nutrition in maintaining health and supporting recovery during cancer treatment. Healthy eating habits, including a mostly plant-based diet, are crucial for managing treatment side effects and preventing malnutrition, which can negatively impact quality of life and treatment outcomes. Registered dietitians play a key role in the oncology team, helping to screen for malnutrition and providing guidance on maintaining a healthy weight. By involving a dietitian early in the treatment process, patients can enhance their nutritional status and overall quality of life. |
| Cancer and Sexual Health Schema | These schemas influence current sexual behaviors and overall sexual well-being. The connection between sexual self-schemas and cancer is highlighted, showing that men with high sexual self-schemas experience more distress when their sexual functioning changes, while women with high sexual self-schemas are more likely to discuss sexual difficulties and advocate for health treatments. The speaker emphasizes the importance of addressing sexual self-schemas in cancer survivors, as they can impact emotional processing and sexual health outcomes. |
| Potential Pharacologic Causes and Recommended Management | Jordan Hill, an oncology pharmacy specialist, discusses the significant prevalence of sexual dysfunction among cancer survivors, which is often overlooked in patient conversations. Jordan highlights that 23-64% of breast cancer survivors experience sexual desire disorders, and up to 80% of post-allogeneic transplant patients face similar issues. The video outlines both non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic management strategies, emphasizing the importance of identifying medication-related causes, particularly the impact of antidepressants. Effective treatments mentioned include bupropion, flibanserin, and PDE5 inhibitors for men, while vaginal moisturizers and hormonal agents are recommended for women. Overall, the video stresses the need for better communication and management of sexual health concerns in cancer survivors. |
| Supporting the Sexual Health Needs of Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Patients | The video highlights the sexual health needs of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients, emphasizing their unique challenges and the importance of addressing these issues. With over 85,000 AYA cancer cases estimated in 2023, this population faces long-term effects on their sexual health due to cancer treatments and related distress. The biopsychosocial model is introduced to understand the impact of cancer on sexuality, while the video stresses the need for open discussions between clinicians and AYAs about sexual health concerns. Various communication tools and educational resources are recommended to support AYAs in navigating their sexual health, as well as integrating sexual health assessments into routine care. |
| Cancer and Post Traumatic Growth | The video explores the concept of post traumatic growth (PTG), emphasizing that positive transformation can emerge from trauma, particularly in cancer survivors. It highlights the psychological struggles that can lead to growth experiences, focusing on the importance of the Post Traumatic Growth Inventory (PGTI) developed by Tedeschi and Calhoun. The discussion includes factors that contribute to PTG, such as relationships, personal strength, and finding meaning in suffering. While not everyone experiences PTG, many cancer survivors report significant growth alongside their challenges. The video also suggests therapeutic approaches to encourage growth and provides resources for further exploration. |
| Pain Focused Pelvic Exam | Elizabeth Graf, a physician assistant specializing in women’s health, discusses the complexities of conducting a pain-focused pelvic exam, particularly for patients experiencing pelvic pain during intercourse. She emphasizes the importance of patient comfort and rapport, as well as the need for a thorough assessment of potential causes of pain. The video outlines the steps involved in the exam, including the use of mirrors and graduated dilators, and highlights the significance of addressing issues like vaginal atrophy and pelvic floor dysfunction. Graf also recommends non-hormonal treatments and the importance of patient history in diagnosing conditions. Overall, this presentation serves as a guide for healthcare providers to improve the pelvic exam experience for patients. |
| Advanced Treatment of Female Sexual Problems | The video discusses the significant sexual health problems faced by female cancer survivors, emphasizing that 30-50% experience sexual dysfunction, which can be exacerbated by pelvic organ involvement. It highlights the importance of addressing both physical and mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, which complicate sexual health. A case study of a 56-year-old postmenopausal woman illustrates the challenges of sexual dysfunction, including pain and bleeding during intercourse. The video advocates for open communication, thorough sexual history taking, and proper vulvar care, while exploring various treatment options, including non-hormonal lubricants and vaginal estrogen. |
| The Role Pelvic Health PT for Management of Cancer Related Sexual | In this informative lecture, Alex Hill, a specialist in pelvic health and oncology, discusses the significant impact of cancer treatments on sexual health. He emphasizes the importance of understanding pelvic floor anatomy and the various side effects that can arise from surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The lecture highlights the unique challenges faced by different populations, including adolescents and young adults (AYAs) and sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals, in relation to sexual dysfunction. Hill advocates for early referrals to pelvic health physical therapy as a critical component of cancer care, aiming to improve patients’ quality of life and sexual health post-treatment. Overall, the session underscores the need for inclusive discussions and tailored interventions to address the diverse needs of cancer survivors. |
| Setting Expectations | The video emphasizes the importance of setting expectations regarding sexual health in the context of cancer treatment. It outlines six key areas for providers to focus on, including initiating conversations, gathering patient information, and discussing the effects of treatments like surgery and radiation. Effective communication skills are highlighted as essential for building relationships and ensuring patients understand their sexual health needs post-treatment. The video also addresses the emotional aspects of cancer, such as body image issues and the need for counseling, while providing strategies for delivering information clearly and effectively. Ultimately, it empowers healthcare providers to confidently discuss sexual health with their patients. |
| Normalizing the Conversation- the 30 sec Message | The video focuses on the importance of normalizing conversations about sexual health in the context of cancer care. It teaches viewers how to effectively deliver a concise thirty-second message that addresses sexual health concerns, emphasizing that all cancer patients deserve this information. The message is designed to be shared by all members of the cancer care team and can be integrated into discussions about quality of life. Personal experiences highlight the need for providers to take responsibility in discussing sexual health, ensuring patients feel empowered and informed. Ultimately, the video advocates for a shift in practices to prioritize sexual health discussions for all patients. |
| Normalizing the Conversation- Challenging Scenarios | The video emphasizes the importance of normalizing discussions around sexual health in the context of cancer care. It builds on previous communication principles, highlighting essential skills for navigating challenging scenarios that healthcare providers may face. Viewers learn to recognize patient cues, express empathy, and validate emotions, which are crucial for fostering open communication. The video also addresses the common sexual health concerns that arise after cancer treatment and encourages proactive discussions to prevent long-term issues. By equipping providers with effective communication tools, the video aims to enhance the patient-provider relationship and improve overall care. |
| Cancer and Sexual Relationships | The discussion focuses on how cancer affects intimacy and sexual relationships, highlighting that intimacy encompasses more than just sexual activity. It addresses the emotional challenges partners face, such as guilt and pressure, which can arise from changes in physical intimacy and communication difficulties. The video emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relationships prior to a cancer diagnosis and suggests practical steps for couples to enhance intimacy, such as redefining intimacy, scheduling sexual encounters, and utilizing a sexual menu. It also encourages open communication about cancer history with new partners and the role of therapists in navigating these changes. |
| Explaining, Planning, Ending the Sexual Health Visit | In this video, Michelle Lewis and Dr. Veronika Kolder guide viewers through the process of concluding a sexual health visit, emphasizing the importance of shared decision-making and understanding the patient’s perspective. They discuss how to effectively explain medical concerns, present treatment options, and involve patients in the planning process. The video illustrates practical examples, such as discussing estrogen cream options, to highlight the need for clear communication and collaboration. Key skills include summarizing the visit, clarifying the plan of care, and ensuring the patient feels comfortable with the decisions made. The session concludes with a focus on creating a supportive environment for patient-provider interactions. |
| Cancer and Sexual Desire | In a discussion about cancer and sexual desire, Lauren Broschak explains the sexual response cycle and highlights the impact of cancer on sexual desire, noting that 50-70% of female cancer survivors experience a reduction in desire. They differentiate between spontaneous and responsive desire, emphasizing the importance of validating patients’ experiences and supporting their goals for increased desire. The speaker suggests self-care strategies, mindfulness practices, and the importance of intimacy outside of sexual interactions to help patients reconnect with their sexual selves. They also recommend referrals to therapists, particularly sex therapists, to address specific sexual concerns and assist in processing grief related to changes in sexual identity post-cancer. |
| HPV Related Oropharyngeal Cancer | The talk highlights a shift in the demographic of oropharyngeal cancer patients, increasingly affecting non-traditional groups, particularly middle-aged men. It discusses the role of HPV as a significant cause of these cancers, with rising positivity rates and a predicted increase in cases by 2030. The presentation covers symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, emphasizing the importance of minimally invasive surgical techniques and the need for careful patient selection to avoid overtreatment. Vaccination against HPV is presented as a crucial preventive measure, with primary care providers playing a vital role in education and early detection. Overall, the discussion underscores the changing landscape of oropharyngeal cancer and the importance of adapting management strategies. |
| Summary | A comprehensive overview of resources available for addressing sexual health in cancer care. It emphasizes the importance of normalizing conversations around this topic, offering tools like a 30-second message worksheet and patient brochures that highlight the psychosocial impacts of cancer treatment on intimate relationships. Additional resources include referral templates for specialists, screening tools for pelvic floor dysfunction, and patient handouts tailored for both patients and their partners. |
