Work

Best evidence summary on sexual health management for patients undergoing intracavitary brachytherapy for gynecological neoplasms

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objective: To systematically retrieve, appraise and synthesize the best available evidence on sexual health management in patients undergoing intracavitary brachytherapy for cervical cancer, so as to provide an evidence-based foundation for developing individualized sexual-health care plans in clinical practice. Methods: A comprehensive computer-based search of domestic and foreign databases, guideline repositories and professional association websites was conducted for all evidence on sexual health management in cervical-cancer patients receiving intracavitary brachytherapy. Document types included guidelines, evidence summaries, systematic reviews, expert consensus statements and clinical decision aids. The search timeframe spanned database inception to June 2025. Results: Twelve publications were ultimately included: two clinical decision aids, one guideline, four systematic reviews, two evidence summaries, one expert consensus and two randomized controlled trials. Thirty-nine evidence statements were extracted and grouped under seven themes: target population and risk factors, screening and assessment, health education, non-pharmacologic interventions, pharmacologic and hormonal therapies, special treatments, and follow-up. Conclusion: This study summarizes the best current evidence on sexual health management for cervical-cancer patients undergoing intracavitary brachytherapy and offers valuable guidance for improving patients' quality of life and sexual-health outcomes. Systematic Review Registration: http://ebn.nursing.fudan.edu.cn/home, identifier ES20256976.

Source: Frontiers in Oncology

DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2026.1770806