A common concern during your cancer journey is how the disease and treatment will impact your current or future relationships. A diagnosis of cancer may affect you in many ways, including your sexuality.
A common concern during your cancer journey is how the disease and treatment will impact your current or future relationships.
A diagnosis of cancer may affect you in many ways, including your sexuality.
Sexuality can encompass physical, psychological, social, emotional and spiritual factors. It includes your self-image, body image, reproductive ability, emotional intimacy, sensual feelings and sexual functioning.
The impact of cancer affects sexuality in a number of ways. Sexuality-related concerns may arise from the physical aspects of disease or treatment, as well as from emotional aspects. Anger, guilt, or worry about illness and survival, treatment or finances may also affect sexuality.
The perception of sexual dysfunction is very individual and comes down to what is abnormal for you. Common physical effects for women include vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse. Men may experience erectile dysfunction. There are also other concerns which may impact on your sexuality:
Sexuality and intimacy are often overlooked topics of discussion when you are first diagnosed with cancer. Initially, this may not be a priority for you. If you haven’t received any information from your care team, it’s not because sexuality and intimacy aren’t important. This can be a difficult topic to discuss or bring up with your doctor or nurse – particularly in a busy, open environment.
Please feel free, if comfortable, to discuss any concerns you may have regarding sexuality issues with your care team. If they are unable to provide sufficient answers for you, you may be referred to more experienced practitioners.
There are many things that can be done to improve your sexual function. Lubricants and moisturisers are recommended to alleviate vaginal dryness and pain. Pelvic floor muscle training may improve sexual pain, arousal, lubrication, orgasm and satisfaction.
Erectile dysfunction can be managed through risk factor modification (e.g. smoking cessation, weight loss, avoiding alcohol), medication and therapy. Counselling and/or couples therapy may also be helpful.
Your care team can provide you with reputable websites and resources for further information.
Find out how to become a patient at Icon Cancer Centre, or request more information from your nearest centre.
A list of credible support agencies to help you through all stages of your cancer journey.
Helpful information on finding the right support when caring for a loved one with cancer.
Our patients share their perspective and advice on receiving and coping with a cancer diagnosis.