Sexual Function Service

All patients who have been treated or undergoing treatment for cancer can receive sexual function support at any stage of their cancer journey.  

The sexual function service offers discrete support and products (if needed) to help patients regain a fulfilling sex life and improve their overall quality of life by addressing both physical and psychological challenges.

This service is not available to urology patients (those with prostate or bladder cancer), as their care is provided by a specialised Andrology team. This ensures all patients receive the most appropriate, expert care for their specific needs.

Common challenges addressed

Cancer and its treatments can affect sexuality in various ways. Our service provides support for symptoms and concerns including, but not limited to:

  • Body image: cancer treatment can change how you feel about your body and its sexual attractiveness. We offer counselling to help manage these feelings and improve self-perception.

  • Relationship concerns: changes in sexual function can impact intimacy and relationships with partners. We provide support for both individuals and couples to navigate these challenges and improve communication.

  • Menopausal symptoms: treatments can induce sudden and severe menopausal symptoms, such as vaginal atrophy (thinning and drying of vaginal walls). This can lead to dryness, soreness, itching, and pain during sex (dyspareunia).

Your appointments

The first appointment is about getting to know you and your concerns, which is done face-to-face at Queen's Hospital Burton. 

Follow up appointments can be either face-to-face or telephone, where you will receive information about the service and contact details. Please bring a list of the medications you take, and you are welcome to bring somebody to the appointment with you.

You will be seen by a non-medical prescriber nurse, who can offer support with:

  • assessing your needs, considering both physical and psychological aspects

  • recommending and providing treatment directly during your appointment (if needed)

  • issue prescriptions for various treatments without needing a separate doctor appointment.

Referral process and contact details

You can request a referral to the sexual function service through your healthcare professional or GP. To make sure you meet the criteria for this service or for more information, please call the sexual function team on 07385954738.