2068P - Perspectives and concerns on sexuality among adolescents and young adults treated for testicular germ cell tumour: The PRICELESS-study - A qualitative study

Background

Sexual dysfunction is a frequently seen late effect in patients treated for testicular germ cell tumour (TGCT). Therefore, monitoring of sexual dysfunction is essential. The Utrecht Symptom Diary (USD) helps monitoring cancer symptoms, but items regarding sexuality are missing. Adding these symptoms may provide a better tailored tool, enhance monitoring of late effects on sexuality, and might help to address this topic. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore perspectives and concerns on late effects regarding sexuality among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) being treated for TGCT to adapt the USD to make it suitable for follow-up care for these patients.

Methods

Individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen AYAs from one centre of expertise for TGCT in the Netherlands. Patients were purposively sampled and using maximum variation. Data was analysed using Braun and Clark’s thematic analysis.

Results

Interviews revealed seven overarching themes which interact and overlap: fulfilment to have children, rediscover sexuality, insecurity about sexual performance, acceptance of physical change, loss of masculinity, burden on relationship, and need to talk about sexuality. Concerns related to the fulfilment to have children seems to play a major role.

Conclusions

Results help to better understand these men’s thoughts and experiences related to late effects regarding sexuality and gives healthcare professionals the opportunity to act on these topics by discussing it in the consulting room. Partner involvement seems beneficial.

Clinical trial identification

Editorial acknowledgement

Legal entity responsible for the study

The author.

Funding

Has not received any funding.

Disclosure

All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.