Sex and Cancer


Sexual feelings and attitudes differ amongst people, even when they do not have a physical illness.

Although changes in sex life are common after being diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment, it does not mean everyone will experience this.  For some, cancer may reduce any desire for sex, whereas for others, it may increase it. Remember that any changes in sexual relationships or intimacy may only be short –term.

For those of you struggling with sexual relationships or intimacy as a result of having cancer, it may be helpful to know that the changes are normal. Cancer may impact upon your sex life both physically and emotionally. 

What is the physical impact of cancer upon sex and relationships?

Living with cancer may lead to a number of physical changes to your body, which may feel uncomfortable. For example:

  • Changes in sex hormone levels
  • Tiredness/Lack of energy
  • Pain
  • Sickness
  • Bladder problems
  • Changes in body image (for further information please click here

Living with cancer and/or the side effects of treatment can be exhausting. For some people, this can result in little energy to do anything physical whether it be getting dressed, doing daily chores or having sex. It is common to lose interest in sexual activity, especially if you experience pain in your body. Physical conditions developed as a result of having cancer treatment (e.g. lymphedema) may lead to additional discomfort, particularly when having sex.

Physical changes may also contribute towards the development of critical self-beliefs about your appearance and/or sexual relationship. Common beliefs may include:

“I am not attractive anymore”

“My partner won’t want to get close to me”

“I won’t be able to enjoy sex because of the pain I am experiencing”

If treatment has caused scarring, hair loss or removal of body parts (e.g., breasts), then you may lose confidence in yourself and your body and feel less sexually attractive. Critical judgements about your body image may in turn reduce your desire or interest in sex.

What is the emotional impact of cancer upon sex and relationships?

You may also be experiencing emotional changes and difficulties, including feelings of:

  • Sadness or hopelessness
  • Loss of sexual desire/arousal
  • Anger or frustration
  • Worry
  • Stress

Changes in emotions can vary in intensity and affect your intimate relationships. You may feel stressed, less confident or fearful which can stop you from engaging in sexual relationships with others. High levels of arousal may interrupt your body’s ability to respond – it may be that you want to have sex but unhelpful emotions get in the way. Additionally, frequent experiences of sadness and worry may spiral into depression or anxiety, which may impede upon your desire to want sex (or even think about it!).

Remember that problems with sex are very common, even for those who do not have cancer. However, feeling anxious, sad or low as a result of living with cancer may lead you to behave in ways which are not helpful in the long term, and this risks the development of a vicious cycle as shown by the example below:

Ryan was diagnosed with cancer. He had surgery and chemotherapy and since then, has been struggling with engaging in intimacy. His partner often wanted to have sex with him, which triggered negative thoughts and feelings of anxiety for Ryan. He subsequently avoided spending time with his partner (both social and sexual activity), which put a strain upon his relationship and maintained feelings of sadness, and anxiety.

 

Clinical Psych Sex and Cancer infographic

What can help?

Talking about the changes

It is normal to avoid communicating about sensitive and personal issues such as sex or even relationship difficulties. It is important to recognise that your partner may also be experiencing their own difficult emotions and concerns around the changes in your sexual relationship too. Talking openly about your feelings together can be highly beneficial if you feel comfortable to do so. Talking can be good for helping you to gain a sense of closeness as you both try to understand each others feelings. Being honest and clear about how you feel is vital as this will help you both work together to make your relationship stronger. Try and find a quiet time together where you can talk open and honestly about your worries. Listening to each other, problem-solving and finding solutions may even bring you closer together.

Try different approaches

If you are experiencing difficulties around intimacy with your partner or starting a new relationship, then there are plenty of things you can try to do in order to show affection, regain closeness and make sex more manageable. For example:

  • Plan time for intimacy (e.g., a time when you will feel rested)
  • Explore new ways of sharing sexual pleasure (e.g. trying different sexual positions to reduce discomfort)
  • Assume a less active role during sexual intercourse
  • Exploring non-genital areas of the body that you/your partner enjoy being touched (e.g., arms, legs).
  • Increasing the time you are intimate with your partner through cuddling, holding hands, date nights or touching each other
  • Sometimes chemotherapy may change normal vaginal lubrication; women may use a water-soluble lubricant, which allows easier movement/less friction.
  • Try relaxation techniques together before sex to help arousal (see ACT and Mindfulness page for mindfulness clips here.
  • Share a bath or shower as this may improve muscle relaxation.
  • Use pillows for support around painful areas when possible
  • Building upon your compassionate self in order to be compassionate to your partner (see Body Image page for compassion focused exercises here

Remember to speak to your doctor or cancer nurse specialist if you have any concerns about having sex during cancer treatment.