Sexual Health Counselling
Ovarian Cancer Australia (OCA), as part of their multidisciplinary service provide sexuality counselling for people impacted by ovarian cancer.
A diagnosis of ovarian cancer and its treatment often changes a person’s sexual function as well as associated feelings, thoughts and behaviour towards intimacy and sexuality. These changes lead many people to feel confused, isolated, sad, and uncertain about their future sex life. These changes in sexual health impact on the person and their intimate relation. Counselling is available to the person with cancer and their partner, in a combination of individual and couple sessions, depending on the circumstances.
Research conducted by OCA in collaboration with the University of Melbourne identified that the impact of ovarian cancer on sexuality is not adequately addressed and that people lack the support to empower themselves to address their sexual changes or concerns. This research found that 72% of people were not asked by health professionals about sexuality issues during their treatment, yet 60% would like to be asked.
Many people want to talk about their sexual concerns at the time of diagnosis, as well as during and after their treatment. It is important we keep open the conversation about sex and cancer to allow the freedom to explore their sexuality at all stages of their care.
OCA's sexuality counselling program provides dedicated counselling sessions via telehealth with our sexual health counsellors, to provide support and assistance in identifying, processing, and managing the concerns and changes that may be experienced.
To access counselling or to refer a patient
If you are interested in accessing sexual health counselling or would like more information, please contact our ovarian cancer nurses via the Helpline on 1300 660 334 (Monday-Friday during business hours AET).
If you are receiving support from Ovarian Cancer Australia's Teal Support Program please talk with your Teal Nurse who can organise the referral.
If you are a health professional wishing to refer a patient, please don’t hesitate to contact the Helpline, or email support@ovariancancer.net.au
