Here are some points to keep in mind during and after cancer treatment.
Learn as much as you can about how your cancer treatment can affect your sex life.
The first thing to do is talk to your health care team about your sex life. You already may have asked how your treatment will affect your going back to work, your eating, or your pain. You have just as much right to know the facts about your sex life. When you know what to expect, you can make plans to handle any problems that come up.
No matter what kind of treatment they have, nearly everyone is still able to feel pleasure from touching.
Few cancer treatments damage the nerves and muscles that help you feel pleasure from touch or having orgasm. You may have to change the way it happens, but most women should still be able to feel pleasure and be satisfied. Women whose cancer treatments affect the brain or spinal cord may not be able to feel pleasure from sex.
Try to keep an open mind about ways to feel sexual pleasure.
Some couples have a narrow view of what is normal sex. If both partners can’t reach orgasm the way they always have, they feel cheated. But during cancer treatment, there may be times when that kind of sex is not possible. Don’t give up just because your routine has been changed.
Try to have clear, 2-way talks about sex with your partner.
Keeping each other up to date with what is going on is key to a good sex life. Tell your partner what you learn from your doctor. If you feel weak or tired and want your partner to take a more active role in touching you, say so. If some part of your body is tender or sore, guide your partner’s touches to create the most pleasure and avoid pain. Keep in mind that if one partner has a sex problem, it affects both of you. If you are dealing with sexual problems, it works best when your partner is part of the solution.
Feel good about yourself.
Remind yourself about your good qualities. If you lose your hair, try a wig, hat, or scarf if it makes you feel better. Or, wear nothing on your head if that works for you. If you’ve had a breast removed, try a breast form so your clothes fit better. Eating right and getting exercise can help keep your body strong and your spirits up. Don’t forget to take time alone to relax, and enjoy time with friends. Do what makes you feel good about yourself.
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