Sexual functions after high-dose chemotherapy in survivors of germ cell XXXX .

@entity1 @entity5
We investigated the changes in sexual function in male @entity1 with germ cell @entity5 continuously disease free after one or two courses of high-dose chemotherapy with hematopoietic stem cell support. A questionnaire was mailed to 35 @entity1 , and 30 @entity1 sent it back. Sexuality was considered a problem by 10 @entity1 (33%), but no @entity1 considered sexuality a major problem. Erection was more difficult to achieve in seven @entity1 (23%) and 10 @entity1 (33%) experienced increased difficulty in maintaining an erection. Eight @entity1 (27%) had the experience of less intensive and less frequent orgasm. In all, 13 @entity1 (43%) thought that both the disease and treatment had worsened their sexual capacity, but 20 @entity1 (67%) were satisfied with their sex life. Most of the @entity1 (63%) considered that insufficient information and counselling had been given by their physicians about the sexual sequelae of therapy. However, the amount of information about the disease and treatment was considered good by 77 and 80% of the @entity1 , respectively. This study shows that 27% of @entity1 were not content with their ability to attain sexual satisfaction due to the illness or its treatment. Communication is an important issue and better information tools could lead to improved compliance in these @entity1 .
