Belgian Physicians' Perceptions of Sexual Health and Its Care in Cervical Cancer Survivors: An Exploratory Qualitative Interview Study

Main objective of the study: To (1) identify Belgian physicians' perceptions of sexual health discussions with patients diagnosed with cervical cancer (CC), and (2) describe sexual health care provision from the physicians' perspective.

Methods

This study was part of a larger exploratory qualitative study using semistructured one-on-one interviews. The present manuscript focuses on 16 Belgian physicians specialized in pelvic gynecologic oncology. Recruitment took place in five hospitals between September 2021 and January 2022. Participants had a median age of 45 years, 56% were female, half were gynecologists, and they provided follow-up care for a mean of 18 newly diagnosed CC patients annually. The interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic data analysis. COREQ and SRQR reporting guidelines were applied.