Oncólogos ginecológicos en Colorado
Some treatments for gynecologic cancer can cause side effects that may change the way you feel about your body or make it difficult to enjoy intimate or sexual relationships.
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Being aware of possible side effects may help you to anticipate them and learn ways to deal with them.
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Vaginal Changes
Some forms of treatment, such as hysterectomy and radiation therapy, may cause dryness, shortening, and narrowing of the vagina. These changes can make sexual activity uncomfortable. Using an over-the-counter vaginal lubricant or vaginal moisturizer may help you feel more comfortable. Your treatment team may also recommend a vaginal dilator.
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Be sure to ask your doctor to recommend a lube or dilator. Please be certain to look for a product that contains low carcinogens and low estrogen. Below are some resources for low-estrogen lube products:
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https://badvibesdotorg.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/lube-guide-low-estrogen-edition.pdf
Reduced Sexual Desire
The stress and fatigue you may experience during and after cancer treatment may cause you to lose interest in sex for a period of time.
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Communicate
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Connect with CGCA. We have counselors who can talk to you about what you are going through.
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Talk with your medical care team. They can provide advice based on your individual situation, so it is very important that you have an open and honest conversation with them.
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Cancer can strain both partners in a relationship. Talking about the sexual and emotional effects cancer has on your relationship can be difficult. But you may find it easier to work through the challenges if you talk about them.
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A sexual health counselor or specialist may be helpful to navigate these conversations.
Shift Your Focus
Shift your focus to intimacy. Sexual intercourse is only one part of intimacy. You may find that touching, kissing, and cuddling are equally fulfilling.
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Be patient with yourself
Understand that a return to a sexual relationship may take time. Your treatment team can tell you if and how long you should wait to have sex after treatment. It may be longer before you feel emotionally ready. Give yourself the time you need.
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Keep and open mind
Having an open mind and a sense of humor about ways to improve your sexuality may help you and your partner find what works best for you.
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Resources:
Sex and Cancer: Intimacy, Romance, and Love after Diagnosis and Treatment, by Dr. Saketh Guntupalli
How Surgery Can Affect the Sex Life of Females with Cancer
How Radiation Therapy Can Affect the Sex Life of Females with Cancer
How Hormone Therapy and Chemo Can Affect the Sex Life of Females with Cancer
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