Psychosexual Morbidity in Women with Ovarian Cancer with Julia Pugh and Chloe Logue

In this episode of the IJGC podcast, Editor-in-Chief Dr. Pedro Ramirez, is joined by Drs. Julia Pugh and Chloe Logue to discuss psychosexual morbidity in women with ovarian cancer. Dr. Julia Pugh is a Gynaecology Clinical Nurse Specialist and psychosexual therapist based at The Christie Hospital in Manchester, UK. Dr. Pugh completed her Advanced Nursing Practice Masters at the University of Manchester and offers support for psychosexual concerns of men and women with cancer. Dr. Chloe Logue is a practicing junior doctor in Manchester. She completed her academic foundation at the Christie Cancer Hospital in Gynaecological Oncology, supervised by Prof Gordon Jayson. Highlights: - 75% of women with ovarian cancer experience psychosexual morbidity, exceeding published general population values. - Key potential risk factors are: younger age, premenopausal status at diagnosis, extensive surgery, more courses of chemotherapy, cardiovascular co-morbidities and anxiety and depression. - Common presenting symptoms include: vaginal dryness (81-87%) and pain (77%), amongst reduced sexual desire and activity, impaired orgasm, diminished perceived body image and reduced partner intimacy.

- The review identified that psychosexual issues are not routinely discussed nor adequately managed by clinicians. Psychosexual problems remain a priority for many women with ovarian cancer, many symptoms could be addressed by discussing their concerns and simple physical measures.