Changes in sexual orientation following prostate cancer. Reflections based on a unique case report

Abstract

This case report presents the unique sexual experience of an adult male who was diagnosed with and treated for prostate cancer. Following treatment, the man identified changes in his sexual orientation and engaged in same-gender sexual relationships. During sexual counseling, he reported satisfaction yet distress regarding his “new” sexual lifestyle. This report posits possible causes for the presentation of sexual change in this case, and considers physiological, psychological, and social contributors. In an attempt to understand the sexual changes experienced by the patient, the report invites thought about the types of intervention that may offer emotional support when an individual feels distressed by the experience of sexual change concurrent with illness.

Keywords:

• ADT (androgen deprivation therapy
• KSOG (Klein Sexual Orientation Grid)
• prostate cancer
• sexual orientation

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Lena Kurtz-Almog

Lena Kurtz-Almog is a certified sex therapist and codirector of the Israel Cancer Association (ICA) Forum for Sexual Counseling. As the ICA staff sex therapist, Lena provides sexual psychotherapy for individuals and couples, lectures and facilitates workshops for medical professionals, and conducts research. She holds an M.A. in community health and certification in dynamic psychotherapy as well as sex therapy. Her therapeutic specialties include sexuality and chronic illness, as well as sexuality and disabilities. Lena also lectures on sexuality at the University of Haifa and Bar Ilan University programs for continuing studies in social work.