Sexual health & fertility resources for cancer patients

Cancer diagnosis can impose both physical and psychological health complications among patients. While, one of the critical consequence of cancer is for patients in reproductive age. Many patients experience some form of sexual problem at some point after a cancer diagnosis. And, research studies show that ‘altered sexuality’ is a matter of concern for cancer survivors. With survivors living longer, relationship issues are turning more important than usual.

Possible consequences

In the following piece, 3MEDS, the best online pharmacy store in India, emphasizes on the changes in sexuality of cancer patients, which can adversely affect the quality of life and that of an intimate partner, and may persist for years after treatment ends. Sexual problems can be caused by common cancer treatment side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, pain, and hormone changes, as well as by an altered self-image of the body and emotional distress, including depression and anxiety.

Some of the sexual challenges and changes are,

In Men

·         Erectile disorder

·         Changes in desire/interest

·         Changes in orgasmic intensity

·         Body image changes

In Women

·         Changes in desire/interest

·         Effects of early menopause, such as vulvovaginal dryness, hot flashes, and painful intercourse

·         Vulvovaginal health, including vulvovaginal dryness and pain

·         Changes in sexual sensitivity, such as nipple sensitivity

·         Changes in orgasmic intensity

·         Body image changes

Sexual dysfunctionality, explained

Cancer treatment can result in disfigurement and anatomical changes for both men and women, that can impair sexual functioning; physiological changes such as changes in hormone levels that can decrease desire or sexual functioning; and psychosocial changes such as poor body image, feelings of distress, anxiety, or depression, and changes in intimacy.

In Men

For men with cancer, the surgical interventions, particularly prostate cancer, rectal tumors, and bladder cancer, may damage nerves or blood supply which is important for sexual function. Erectile dysfunction and penile fibrosis can be caused by radiation can persist for years after the treatment of radiation therapy.

Also, chemotherapy may pose sexual dysfunctionality issues in men and can have an indirect effect on sexual health due to the psychosocial effect of common side effects. In addition, a common treatment for prostate cancer is androgen deprivation therapy, which lowers testosterone to castration levels. Leading to decrease in the size of the penis and testicles, lower libido, and cause erectile dysfunction.

In Women

Anatomical changes that make sexual functioning challenging are a result of the surgical interventions, particularly of the reproductive organs. For instance, a radical hysterectomy typically includes removal of the upper portion of the vagina. Some protocols, like removal of vulvar or vaginal tumors, may damage nerves that are important for sexual arousal and orgasm. Radiation therapy can also cause nerve damage, as well as changes to the pelvic organs such as vaginal atrophy or fibrosis.

Also, sexual dysfunction among women is caused directly or indirectly, due to systemic cancer treatment. Chemotherapy and some hormonal therapies used to treat breast cancer can induce postmenopausal-like symptoms including vaginal dryness, itching, and pain during sex. Other adverse effects of chemotherapy, including hair loss, nausea and vomiting, and fatigue, can impair sexual health.

Seek help

Take steps to avoid thoughts of being concerned about embarrassing your health care provider or think that they won’t have solutions. Some of the factors include,

Plan an assessment- Enquire the health care professional to explore potential causes and treatments for changes in your sexual health and function.

Look ahead- Right timing of sex or intimacy can increase enjoyment. Plan for the times when you have the least fatigue or feel at your best.

Talk about the needs- Put out the urges of what you want and need. As, your partner and health care providers may not be aware of changes you’ve experienced and what your needs are now.

Wrap yourself with supportive pals- Spend time with individuals who bring positive energy into your life and who are encouraging and accepting. Re-evaluate relationships that don’t do this and may be toxic.

Don’t give up- Having patience and a sense of humor are required and is important as relationships take work from all involved parties.

On your time- It’s not a marathon, rest during sex if you need to.

Being in fantasy- Remember, sex isn’t the only form of intimacy. Skin is the largest sex organ and the brain is the most important sex organ and the possibilities are limitless. Can engage in protected intercourse by purchasing necessities like condom or contraceptive pills through any top online pharmacy India.

Ending note

Usually, cancer survivors will be anxious about bringing up sexual health concerns with their healthcare provider or their intimate partners. But, there is nothing to be uncomfortable about the topic. Value your needs and feelings, and act accordingly.