SEXUAL ISSUES. There are a number of physical changes that often occur with diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship of cancer. PHYSICAL.

SEXUAL ISSUES

CANCER

There are a number of physical changes that often occur with diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship of cancer.

PHYSICAL

The emotional effects of cancer can be at least as important as the physical aspects

EMOTIONAL

Physical

Emotional

4

Surgical: Pain, numbness, removal of sensitive tissues, removal of hormone producing tissues

COMMON SEXUAL EFFECTS OF CANCER TREATMENT

Surgical effects on sexual function depend on age, sexual and bladder function prior to surgery, tumor location and

size, and amount of tissue removed.

The main cause of problems with erection or orgasm is the injury of nerves in the pelvic cavity by cutting or damage to

the blood supply.

MEN

Following surgery to remove organs from the abdomen or pelvis may have pain and loss of sexual function depending

on the amount of tissue removed.

WOMEN

MEN

Damages arteries supplying blood to the penis.

Scar tissue can cause problems with nerves and

blood flow.

Women

Infertility

Pain from irritation

Potential scar tissue

RADIATION

LOSS OF DESIRE MORE TIME OR STIMULATION NEEDED TO

REACH ORGASM

MOST COMMON SEXUAL EFECTS

SEXUAL HISTORY

SEXUAL PREFERENCES ARE STRONGLY ESTABLISHED AND

ENDURE OVER TIMEIF YOU

DIDN’T ENJOY SEX BEFORE CANCER TREATMENT YOU ARE NOT LIKELY TO PURSUE SEXUAL ACTIVITY AFTER TREATMENT

HETEROSEXUAL

HOMOSEXUAL

MASTURBATION

BODY TYPE

FANTASIES

PREFERENCE

IF YOU DON’T HAVE A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR PARTNER YOU

WILL BE LESS LIKELY TO WANT TO ENGAGE IN SEX WITH THAT PERSON

DEPRESSION: COMMON SYMPTOMS INCLUDE DISTURBANCES IN APPETITE,

SLEEP, AND SEX DRIVE.

ANXIETY: INTERFERES WITH SEXUAL INTEREST AND THE ABILITY TO RELAX

DURING INTIMATE MOMENTS.

MOOD

1. Talk with the doctor about symptoms and potential physical issues related to medication, chemotherapy, surgical, and

radiation

2. Do things you believe will enhance your physical attractiveness to make yourself more comfortable.

3. Tackle embarrassment issues gradually. One step at a time. Taking small steps will increase your confidence

Don’t be afraid to experiment on your own. Self expression is a good way to start. Remember to keep an open mind

THINGS TO TRY

Visual stimulation is generally more powerful for men than for women but can be a powerful tool for both sexes.

Olfactory senses are important also. Certain scents can recall pleasant images.

Tactile stimulation can vary from soft to intense depending on the situation. Remembering that following treatment the time and intensity of

stimulation need adjustment.

Novelty: Try new things and new places. Vary the old “routine” this serves best to increase sexual interest

Remember to allow time. The effects of cancer and cancer treatment decrease over time.

TYPES OF STIMULATION

ANTIDEPRESSANTS

BLOCKERS

SEDATIVE/HYPNOTICS

ANTICONVULSANTS

MEDICATIONS

PAIN MEDICATIONS

SLEEPING MEDICATIONS

ANTIHISTAMINES

BLOOD PRESSURE MEDICATIONS