A new focus in cancer care is emerging, shining a light on an often neglected aspect of patient well-being: sexual health. Recent discussions among medical professionals highlight that, while cancer treatments have advanced and survival rates are improving, the sexual health needs of patients are still frequently overlooked in both research and clinical practice. This oversight has a profound impact on quality of life and recovery, underscoring an urgent need for change in patient care protocols around the world—including Thailand, where taboos around sexual health and limited support services persist.
The renewed attention stems from growing evidence and expert consensus that the sexual health of cancer patients is intricately tied to their overall physical and emotional wellness. According to a series of interviews and recent studies reported by OncLive, clinicians have identified substantial gaps in support for sexual health issues during and after cancer treatments. Many cancer therapies—including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation—can lead to sexual dysfunction or altered body image, further compounding the stress and trauma of diagnosis.
This issue is particularly crucial for survivors of cancers impacting reproductive organs—such as breast, cervical, ovarian, or prostate cancer—but also extends to a wide range of diagnoses. For example, patients often experience vaginal dryness, erectile dysfunction, loss of libido, or pain during intercourse. Psychological barriers including anxiety and depression are also pervasive, yet routine discussions about sexual health are rare in many clinical settings. In a landmark survey published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, over 60% of oncology patients reported unmet sexual health needs, but less than 25% had received any counseling or intervention from their healthcare team link.
Experts such as oncology psychologists and specialized cancer nurses are calling for a system-wide change in how sexual health is addressed for cancer patients globally. A leading oncology nurse noted: “Sexual health is a vital part of our patients’ quality of life. When we ignore these needs, we’re not treating the whole person.” This perspective increasingly aligns with international cancer care guidelines, such as those put forth by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) link, which recommend routine assessment and intervention for sexual symptoms in all cancer care pathways.
The barriers to comprehensive sexual health support in cancer care are complex. Many clinicians report discomfort or lack of training in addressing sexual topics, while patients may hesitate to bring up such concerns because of cultural taboos or embarrassment. In Thailand, a country rich in tradition and still largely conservative regarding sexual discourse, these challenges are particularly pronounced. Cultural researchers at leading Thai medical universities have pointed out that embarrassment and societal norms often prevent frank discussions, leading to a cycle of silence that undermines recovery and relationship satisfaction for cancer survivors link.
To address these issues, medical experts are advocating for more robust training for healthcare providers in sexual health communication, as well as establishing dedicated sexual health clinics within oncology departments. Internationally, some hospitals have pioneered integrated care models where sexual counselors are part of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, offering specialized support alongside oncologists, psychologists, and nutritionists. In Bangkok, several leading public hospitals have begun pilot programs to include basic sexual health screening questions in follow-up visits and provide referrals to specialists when needed.
Related to these developments, Thai cultural beliefs around sexuality and health affect how patients report symptoms and seek care. Historically, discussions about sexual problems have been often relegated to the private sphere, or handled by traditional practitioners outside the formal healthcare system. However, there is a growing recognition that open communication, evidence-based information, and supportive counseling can greatly improve recovery and life satisfaction for survivors.
Future directions in Thailand and elsewhere are likely to include wider adoption of routine sexual health assessments, creation of culturally sensitive educational materials for both patients and clinicians, and further research into the specific needs of sexual and gender minority cancer patients, who are at even higher risk for unmet sexual health needs. International studies also highlight the need for digital resources, telemedicine consultation, and peer support networks—approaches that may help break down barriers in Thailand’s diverse urban and rural populations link.
For Thai readers and families affected by cancer, experts urge being proactive: patients and loved ones should feel empowered to bring up sexual health concerns with their care teams. Healthcare providers, in turn, must work to foster environments where these conversations are normalized and supported. As one oncology psychologist recently stated, “Addressing sexual health isn’t just about intimacy—it’s about restoring dignity, confidence, and hope after cancer.”
For now, the key takeaway is that sexual health is an essential, if long-overlooked, pillar of cancer recovery. By advocating for open dialogue and comprehensive care, Thailand can follow the global trend toward truly holistic health for all cancer patients.