A systematic review of characteristics of couple-based intervention studies addressing sexuality following cancer.

AIM: To describe the characteristics of couple-based intervention studies that address sexuality following cancer.

BACKGROUND: Sexuality-related problems are common among cancer survivors and their partners.

DESIGN: Systematic literature review with a narrative summary of results.

DATA SOURCES: Electronic searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL and PsychINFO. We included studies published from 1 January 2009 - 31 December 2016. Additional information was retrieved by scrutinizing reference lists, conducting citation tracking and contacting authors. We included all types of quantitative intervention studies published in the English language which contained outcome measures corresponding to the neo-theoretical framework of sexuality-sexual function, sexual relationship and sexual self-concept.

REVIEW METHODS: Our review was guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute reviewer's manual. Data were extracted and appraised using the standardized checklists for quantitative studies. This assessment was conducted independently by two reviewers. A third reviewer was involved if consensus could not be reached.

RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included. Interventions were delivered face-to-face, by telephone or via the Internet. Sessions ranged from 1-8, with a duration from 2-22 weeks. Most studies offered ≥3 sessions. Interventions addressed unique concerns and/or provided general education. There was little agreement on the use of outcome measures. Most studies inadequately described fidelity to the study protocol and the training of interventionists.

CONCLUSION: There was no clear consensus about how couple-based interventions are best structured. The results provide tentative evidence for how the quality of future research studies can be improved and how knowledge can be used in clinical practice.