While cancer treatment can be lifesaving, experts at Capital Health Cancer Center believe there’s more to survivorship than follow-up scans and checkups. For women who have received treatment for breast cancer, gynecologic cancers, colorectal cancer and others that may affect hormonal balance, pelvic function, or sexual health, Capital Health Cancer Center offers the IMPACT Program to help women navigate Intimacy, Menopause, and Pelvic Health After Cancer Treatment.
“For women living with breast cancer, colorectal cancer, or gynecologic cancer, treatment for these conditions may affect their hormonal balance, pelvic function, and sexual health,” said Dr. Joyce Varughese, medical director of the Center for Gynecologic Oncology at Capital Health Cancer Center. “New participants start the program with a consultation to identify their specific areas of concern. After that, we develop personalized, evidence-based care plans through a multidisciplinary team of specialists that may include oncology clinicians, an oncology nurse navigator, menopause specialists, behavioral health experts, certified sex and relationship therapists, and rehabilitation services provided by pelvic floor physical therapists and certified lymphedema occupational therapists.”
“Whether they’re experiencing discomfort, hormonal changes, or relationship challenges after cancer treatment, patients just want to feel whole again,” said Kathie Olsen, program director of the Capital Health Center for Incontinence and Pelvic Health. “Our program lets them know they don’t have to navigate the process alone. The IMPACT team creates a safe, judgment-free space where participants can openly address the physical and emotional effects of cancer treatment, receive the care they deserve, and reclaim their confidence and comfort with intimacy.”
The IMPACT Program is also for women with genetic mutations that increase their risk for cancers and have undergone treatments that can similarly affect their pelvic and/or sexual health. Services may include pelvic floor therapy for pain, incontinence, or discomfort; lymphedema management, including manual lymphatic drainage, therapeutic wrapping, and exercise; non-hormonal or hormonal treatment options for vaginal dryness or atrophy; counseling or therapy for sexual intimacy and relationship support; lifestyle and nutrition recommendations, and mind-body approaches to support healing.
For details about the IMPACT Program at Capital Health Cancer Center, visit capitalhealthcancer.org/impact, or call 609-303-4474 to schedule an appointment.
In addition to the IMPACT Program, Capital Health Cancer Center offers a wide range of support services to help patients connect with others who are undergoing cancer treatment, consult with doctors about lifestyle decisions, and enroll in programs designed to help them become healthier versions of themselves. Learn more at capitalhealthcancer.org/supportservices.