Kathy Trotter recently published an article entitled "Gynecologic Issues for Cancer Survivors" in The Journal for Nurse Practitioners. The publication of this article was a collaborative effort with colleagues at the Duke Cancer Center. Co-authors include Sarah Cohlmeyer, gynecology oncology nurse practitioner at the Duke Cancer Center and Lisa Massa, rehab services coordinator and co-director of the Women's Health Physical Therapist Residency, Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Duke University Health System. 

Abstract The development of sexual morbidity in survivors of female cancers is a multifactorial problem encompassing psychological, physiological and sociological elements. Often patients are embarrassed to discuss sexual function, and it is rarely addressed in clinical practice. Cancer treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and endocrine therapies, greatly influence sexual health. Of import, pelvic floor dysfunction plays a significant role in women’s ability to enjoy sexual intercourse and to tolerate the medical pelvic examination. Nurse practitioners and physical therapist specialists can offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment of the pelvic floor with a structured treatment program to significantly affect sexual satisfaction.