Sexual health and cancer

Sexual life after cancer treatment may change, both physically and emotionally. These changes can affect your and your partner’s experience of intimacy, yet it is possible to restore the ability to enjoy sexual connection. It is natural for sexuality to readjust alongside the body and mind after treatment.

Safety and physical health

For many women who have completed cancer treatment, a key concern is when sexual activity will be safe. The most accurate information regarding this can be provided by the medical doctor overseeing your care.

• If you have undergone surgery, sexual activity may carry the risk of damaging stitches. For this reason, it is recommended to wait for a specific period in accordance with your doctor’s instructions.
• Treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy can temporarily weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infection. Paying special attention to your body during this period is crucial.

Radiotherapy and partner safety

Some women worry that radiation might be transferred to their partner after radiotherapy. Consulting with your doctor is the most reliable way to clarify this issue.

• If the radiation is delivered via an external machine, no radiation remains in the body after the session, and this situation poses no danger to your partner.
• If radioactive implants have been placed in the uterus or vagina, it is vital to discuss with your doctor when it will be possible to safely resume sexual activity.

Communication with your partner and emotional intimacy

If the changes in your health are causing you distress, it is beneficial to speak openly with your partner about them. Clear communication reduces misunderstandings and facilitates adjustment to both parties’ needs.

You may need more time than before to become aroused and reach orgasm.

It is important to explain to your partner which touches, positions, and rhythms feel comfortable for you.

Your partner may be hesitant about causing you pain. To reduce this anxiety, telling them what is pleasant for you and what is difficult creates a safe space in your relationship.

If there are going to be changes in your sexual relationship, discussing them together and re-evaluating your sexual repertoire helps maintain intimacy.

Psychological support and therapy

Feelings of depression, anxiety, and concerns about body image are frequently encountered after cancer, and their impact on sexual life is significant. If the difficulties you are experiencing persist, couples counseling or sex therapy can be beneficial in restoring your intimate experience.

If your sexual life was important to you before cancer, there is no reason why it cannot continue to be important now. Cancer and its treatment do not prevent you from leading a healthy and satisfying sexual life. Reconnecting with your body and restoring intimacy after treatment is possible and a completely human need.

                                                                © 2018 by Shabnam Sadigova