Beyond Survival: The Silent Struggle of Living After Cancer Implications for Sexual Health, Identity, and Quality of Life in Survivorship
Debi Lynn
ABSTRACT
Advances in oncology have significantly improved cancer survival rates; however, survivorship is frequently accompanied by persistent physical, psychological, relational, and sexual health challenges that remain underrecognized and undertreated. This paper examines cancer survivorship through a narrative-informed and trauma-aware lens, emphasizing the long-term impact of cancer treatment on sexual health, identity, communication, and quality of life. Drawing on lived experience and supported by contemporary survivorship and sexual medicine research, the paper highlights gaps in post-treatment care, particularly regarding intimacy, embodiment, and psychosocial well-being. The findings underscore the need for integrated, trauma-informed survivorship models within sexual medicine that prioritize dignity, relational connection, and long-term quality of life rather than survival alone.
