The short answer
Cancer and its treatment can change sexual health and interest in intimacy — during treatment and sometimes after. Many changes are temporary and improve when treatment ends, while others last longer. Care teams and sexual health experts can help manage these changes, and intimacy and closeness often stay important.
Cancer treatment can change sexual health during treatment and sometimes after.
Many changes are temporary and improve when treatment ends; some last longer.
Whether sexual health is affected depends on the cancer, treatment, dose, age, and other factors.
Most people can be sexually active during treatment, but should confirm this with their doctor.
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The full explanation.
The simple version
People being treated for cancer may notice changes that affect their sexual life — during treatment and sometimes after. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), you may not have the same energy or interest in sexual activity that you had before treatment. At the same time, feeling close to and being intimate with a spouse or partner often stays important.
Many changes are temporary and improve once treatment ends. Others may last longer or may begin after treatment.
What affects whether sexual health changes
Whether your sexual health is affected depends on several things:
- the type of cancer
- the type of treatment or treatments
- the amount (dose) of treatment
- the length of treatment
- your age at the time of treatment
- how much time has passed since treatment
- other personal health factors
Health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking can also play a role.
Common kinds of changes
Different treatments can bring different changes. NCI notes that:
- Some treatments can lower hormone levels or interest in sex.
- Radiation or surgery in the pelvic area can affect sexual function.
- Some medicines, including certain pain and depression medicines, can lower sex drive.
- Physical changes from treatment, such as after breast or ostomy surgery, can affect how a person feels about their body.
Related side effects — such as pain, fatigue, hair loss, sadness, or trouble sleeping — can also affect sexual health. Speaking up about them can help you get support.
Staying active during treatment
Most people can be sexually active during treatment, but NCI advises confirming this with your doctor. There may be times when the risk of infection or bleeding is higher, and you may be advised to avoid sexual activity then. Depending on the treatment, using a condom may be advised — some treatments can remain in semen or vaginal secretions for a time — and contraception may be advised to prevent pregnancy.
Ways to manage and get support
People on your health care team have helped others through this and can offer suggestions. You may also want to talk with a sexual health expert. Your team can help you:
- learn about treatments and options for specific problems
- manage related side effects such as pain, fatigue, and low mood
- learn what protection or contraception is advised
- find professionally led support groups and counseling
Sharing your feelings with people you trust can also help. Your care team is the best guide to what your treatment may mean and what can help.
Words to know
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Common questions
▸Will cancer treatment change my sexual health?
It might. Whether your sexual health is affected depends on the type of cancer and treatment, the dose and length of treatment, your age, and other factors. Many changes are temporary, but some can be long term.
▸Is it safe to be sexually active during treatment?
Most people can be sexually active during treatment, but you should confirm this with your doctor. At certain times — for example, when the risk of infection or bleeding is higher — you may be advised to avoid sexual activity.
▸Are the changes permanent?
Many changes are temporary and improve once treatment ends. Others may be long term or may start after treatment. Your care team can explain what to expect for your treatment.
▸Do I need to use protection?
Sometimes. Condoms may be advised because some treatments can remain in semen or vaginal secretions, and contraception may be advised to prevent pregnancy during treatment. Ask your care team what is recommended.
▸Who can help me with these changes?
Your doctor, nurse, or social worker can help, and you may also talk with a sexual health expert. Professionally led support groups and counseling can help you cope.
Questions to ask your doctor
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