Sexuality
Your sexual self is an important part of who you are. Sexuality is not just about 'having sex' but also about how you think and feel about your own body. Cancer and cancer treatments can change the way you look as well as how your body functions.
You may not be able to do the things that you're used to doing, because of your disease or treatment. You may not feel very good about your body, the way it looks and any changes taking place. You might also be worried about how other people see you and how they will relate to you. This can make it hard to begin or continue an intimate relationship.
If you are tired, feeling ill or in pain, your interest in or ability to have sex may change. You may find thinking about relationships and sex too much to deal with on top of coping with your diagnosis of cancer and your treatment. While your sexual desire and interest may decrease for a number of reasons - fear, changes to your body, treatment and side effects etc - it is still possible to have close, intimate relationships.
Share any fears or worries with your partner/boy/girlfriend- it is important to let them know how you're feeling so that they understand what is happening for you. You may find you need to take things slowly for a while.
Holding hands, cuddling, touching and kissing are all ways of expressing sexuality. Do what you feel comfortable with at this time. Also, don't be shy about coming to your doctor or members of your treating team with questions about your treatment and how it may affect your sex life and sexual desire. They can help you with counselling, advice and reassurance.
If you are going to have sex, then it is very important to remember contraception. While some treatments can affect your fertility, it is still possible to get pregnant during treatment. Some anti-cancer treatments may cause changes to ova and sperm, which can affect the normal development of unborn babies ie: if you were to become pregnant there may be concerns about the healthy development of the foetus.
Your doctor or nurse can help you with advice about the best form of contraception for you. If you are on the contraceptive pill, tell your doctor and ask if it is safe to continue taking it whilst having your cancer treatment. Should pregnancy occur, it is important that you see your doctor as soon as possible. Also, don't forget to protect yourself against sexually transmitted diseases by using condoms.
Remember - enjoy yourself! Use alternative sexual activities if intercourse is impossible or uncomfortable. Have fun and be creative! You can still enjoy a sexually fulfilling relationship.