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Cancer of the Vulva - Social Work
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Contents
Social Work for Professionals
Social work interventions with women who have gynaecological cancer involve adopting an holistic approach to identifying and addressing the woman's social, emotional and psychological needs - as well as those of families and carers. Relationships are a vital part of a woman's ability to adjust to diagnosis and treatment. Interviews with partners, family or carers and the provision of information can assist in reducing anxiety and sense of control for both the woman and those within her support network. Reviewing a woman's support network may indicate that the additional assistance of community agencies is needed. Social workers can assist in organising those services. Cancer of the Vulva for Social Workers
A diagnosis of gynaecological cancer confronts a woman with issues related to her health, survival, body image, identity, personal and cultural roles, and psychosexual functioning. Issues of previous sexual abuse are likely to resurface during treatment for gynaecological cancer. It is important for practitioners to be mindful of the incidence of sexual trauma, often undisclosed, in the general population of women. Multiple losses and potential losses can be experienced as an overwhelming overall sense of loss. These can include:
This sense of loss can be compounded by a resurfacing of previous losses in the woman's life. Long after the completion of treatment, women may report a continuing sense of vulnerability, fear and anxiety. However, most women are able to identify and utilise their own personal strengths in adjusting to the crisis of cancer. They commonly describe an increased appreciation of life and close relationships, and a reordering of personal priorities. Further Information
Sue Starrenburg Sarah Napier
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