RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Evaluation of Gynecological and Sexual Sequelae

This study focuses on how treatments for rectal cancer, such as surgery and radiotherapy, can affect women's gynaecological health and sexual well-being. While these treatments are vital for fighting cancer, they can sometimes lead to long-term problems like vaginal dryness, discomfort during sex, and urinary issues. We know that these problems can significantly impact a woman's overall quality of life. Researchers want to understand these specific issues better, as they are often overlooked or not fully addressed in current care. By gathering more information, the goal is to develop better ways to assess, prevent, and manage these side effects, ultimately improving the lives of women who have been treated for rectal cancer.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University Hospital, Rouen

Enrolment target

Start

09 Feb 2026

Estimated completion

01 Sep 2027

Rectal Cancer Patients

What is this study about?

Surgeons typically treat rectal cancer by removing part of the rectum. This is often combined with other treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which use powerful drugs or radiation to kill cancer cells before or after surgery. While these treatments have greatly improved the chances of surviving rectal cancer, they can sometimes cause long-lasting side effects.

The treatments can change the body in ways that affect how different systems work. For instance, surgery can alter the natural structure of the pelvis and sometimes damage tiny nerves. Radiotherapy can cause inflammation and scarring in the pelvic area, which might affect blood vessels and nerves. These changes can then lead to various problems, including issues with bladder control, and for women, problems like vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex.

This study is particularly interested in how these treatments specifically impact women's gynaecological health and their sex life. We know that feeling good about your sexual health is an important part of overall well-being, especially for women as they get older. Currently, these effects are not always fully recognised or managed in standard care. By understanding these problems better, this research hopes to find new ways to help women who have been treated for rectal cancer to live better, healthier lives.

Key takeaways

Rectal cancer treatments can cause long-term side effects.
This study focuses on how these treatments affect women's gynaecological health and sex life.
The aim is to improve understanding and management of these side effects.
Participation will likely involve completing questionnaires.
Your involvement could help improve care for future patients.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for women who were diagnosed with rectal cancer between 2020 and 2025, when they were between 18 and 60 years old. You need to have finished your cancer treatment and be in remission, meaning your cancer is not active anymore. It's also important that you were sexually active before you started your cancer treatment and that you completed health questionnaires during your treatment.

There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join the study. For example, if you have trouble understanding or answering questionnaires, perhaps due to a language barrier or certain health conditions, you wouldn't be eligible. Pregnant women, those still undergoing active cancer treatment or chemotherapy, or women who've had major gynaecological surgery in the past, are also unable to take part. Also, if you are currently in prison or under certain legal restrictions, or don't have social security coverage, you cannot join.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a woman aged 18 to 60 at the time of your rectal cancer diagnosis?
Were you diagnosed with rectal cancer between 2020 and 2025?
Is your rectal cancer currently in remission (not active)?
Were you sexually active before your rectal cancer treatment?
Did you complete various health questionnaires during your cancer treatment?
Are you able to comfortably understand and complete questionnaires?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The study does not specify exactly what taking part would involve in terms of visits or assessments. However, based on the detailed description, it's likely you would be asked to complete further questionnaires focused on your gynaecological health and sexual quality of life. The exact number of questionnaires, their length, and how often you would need to complete them is not mentioned. There is no mention of taking new medication or specific follow-up appointments beyond the questionnaires. The total duration of participation is also not specified, but it would involve assessing your health after your rectal cancer treatment is complete.

Potential risks and benefits

The main benefit of taking part in this study is contributing to a better understanding of how rectal cancer treatments affect women's health. This research could help improve care for future patients. There are no direct medical benefits for you, as the study focuses on assessing problems rather than treating them. The main risk would be the time and effort required to complete questionnaires, which might cover sensitive topics. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

Service de Chirurgie Digestive
Verified postcode
Rouen, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'remission' in cancer?

Remission means your cancer signs and symptoms have reduced or disappeared. It doesn't always mean the cancer is completely cured, but it's not currently active.

Why is this study only for women who were sexually active before treatment?

The study aims to understand *changes* in sexual health after treatment. If you weren't sexually active before, it's harder to measure these changes.

Will this study give me new medication or treatment?

No, this study is about understanding and assessing the effects of existing treatments, not testing new ones. You will not receive any new medications or therapies through this study.

What does 'gynaecological sequelae' mean?

It refers to lasting effects or problems that affect the female reproductive system after a disease or treatment.

What does a 'sexual quality of life' questionnaire involve?

These questionnaires typically ask about your satisfaction with your sex life, any difficulties you might be experiencing, and how these issues affect your overall well-being.

How to find out more

Nabila NL LAAJAIL, Director

secretariat.drc@chu-rouen.fr 02 32 88 82 65 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.