Sexuality Issues
With cancer, you have to deal with many changes in your life. Over time, who you are, and how you feel about yourself as well as your relationships may all change. Below are some of the changes you may experience with your sexuality. There are also ideas for dealing with those changes, and resources you can use.
You may feel awkward talking about sexual issues. And you might find it hard to be honest about how you feel. You partner, doctor, or nurse may be waiting for you to bring up the subject of sex. That’s because they don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable. You should feel free to ask questions and talk about your sexual issues or concerns. It might help to talk to social workers, counselors, or other women in support groups.
When thinking about the effects cancer may have had on your sexuality, ask yourself the following questions:
- How has my illness changed the way I see myself and feel about myself?
- How has my illness interfered with my role as partner or mother or...?
- How has my illness affected my sexual functioning or response?