Sexual Health After Cancer Treatment
Sexuality is an important and rewarding part of life. But many cancer survivors experience physical and emotional changes after cancer treatment that may affect how they feel about their sexual health and intimate relationships.
Our supportive care team has the expertise to help.
Common Challenges Faced by Cancer Survivors
Body Image
Cancer treatment may impact your physical and emotional health, from hair loss or weight changes to how you feel about yourself. Some steps you may take to address these challenges include maintaining a healthy diet, practicing relaxation techniques, or looking for ways to focus on what you like about your appearance.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction, or difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, affects about half of all men who are cancer survivors. However, medications, assistive devices, counseling, surgery and other approaches may help.
Fertility
Cancer treatment may affect fertility for men and women. The outcome often depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, drugs and dosages, radiation exposure, the extent of surgery, age and genetics. If you’re considering having children in the future, talk to your cancer care team openly and honestly about fertility-preserving approaches.
Intimacy
Intimacy is about how you and your partner stay physically and emotionally connected, which may be difficult during and after cancer treatment. Kindness, affection and respect go a long way toward staying connected. Be sure to communicate openly and to set aside time to spend together.
Loss of Sexual Desire
Loss of libido after cancer treatment is reported by up to 65% of female cancer survivors. This may be related to mental and physical health issues. Communicate with your cancer care team and your partner if you experience these issues.
Pain During Sex
Pain during sex, or dyspareunia, is the most common sexual complaint among female cancer survivors. It can be the result of surgery, radiation or hormone treatments. Talking to your partner, your care team or a sexual health counselor may help.
More Resources for Cancer Survivors
City of Hope® offers a wide range of support services for cancer survivors.
Going back to work after cancer is a time of transition. Here are tips on navigating the practical concerns of rejoining the workforce.
Cancer and its treatments are intensive. This means that survivors often experience physical symptoms and side effects that continue after treatment.
It is normal to experience difficult emotions, such as anxiety or fear, after completing your cancer treatment. Here are tips on mental and emotional health after cancer.