Sexualitet och informationsbehov hos män som behandlats för prostatacancer

Abstract

Background: Men that have gone through treatment for prostate cancer may lose their sexuality as result of treatment. The sexual ability might symbolize manliness, despite age and sexual activities. Aim: The aim of the literature study was to describe; Influence on sexuality and the daily life for men with prostatecancer and their experience of informationneeds. Method: The material for the literature study was searched through databases; 13 scientific articles were selected and two articles through manual search, all 15 articles were examined. Result: Five categories were found in the result of the literature study; physical dimension, emotional/mental dimension, social/practical dimension and informationneeds. The result showed side effects of treatment such as impotence, erectile dysfunction, reduced sexual satisfaction and urinary incontinence. Conclusions: The study showed how important sexuality is for men’s identity, quality of life and self-respect. It also showed that sexuality existed in several dimensions and that the nurse should be aware about this when he/she informs men with prostate cancer. Individualized information may strengthen men’s emotional condition and lead to participation in his care.