Queenslanders with concerns about sex after cancer have been invited to trial Rekindle, the world’s first online resource specifically designed to improve the sex lives of cancer survivors.
Designed by Cancer Council and University of Sydney, the resource offers an online intervention to help couples rekindle their romance after treatment.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said Rekindle was developed in response to studies showing more than half of all cancer survivors had sexual concerns after completing treatment.
New research by Cancer Council Queensland* found around 62 per cent of cancer patients surveyed experienced a range of sexual issues, and about 30 per cent didn’t access support to address them.
“Rekindle is a private, personalised online resource that addresses sexual concerns for all adults affected by cancer,” Ms Clift said.
“Cancer survivors, whether in a relationship or single, and partners, are invited to use Rekindle, which will be personally tailored to meet their specific needs.”
Rekindle can be used on any device, including laptops, tablets and smart phones. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“The resource helps cancer survivors to have a fulfilling sex life after cancer,” Ms Clift said.
“Rekindle provides bedroom activities to help survivors regain their spark and overcome sexual concerns that may result from cancer treatment.
“Anyone involved has the opportunity to confidentially and anonymously provide feedback on Rekindle to contribute to research and improve the resource.
“Rekindle is designed to be used in private settings, mindful of individual needs and sensitive to the desire for intimacy.”
Ms Clift said the resource would be instrumental in improving the sex lives of cancer survivors.
“The trial could provide a supportive care breakthrough in helping to improve overall quality of life for cancer patients.
“It aims to give cancer survivors hope and confidence in having their sexual needs met, in a way that is emotionally safe and non-threatening.”
Rekindle is available for cancer survivors and their partners aged 18 or older with any type of cancer. The resource has 12 versions tailored to gender and relationship status.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift urged Queensland cancer survivors affected by sexual or relational concerns to reach out for support.
“Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 is staffed by fully qualified health professionals who can answer questions about sexual or relational issues,” Ms Clift said.
“Callers may also be referred to our statewide Cancer Counselling Service, run free of charge throughout Queensland, for further advice and assistance.”
The Rekindle project is being funded by the Australian Research Council, and is available at rekindleonline.org.au.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available via Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 or cancerqld.org.au.
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Katie Clift, Executive Manager, Media and Spokesperson, Cancer Council Queensland
Ph: (07) 3634 5372 or 0409 001 171
*1000 Survivor Study, Cancer Council Queensland, 2015.