Cancer patients know all too well that their disease has far-reaching effects - including the ability to enjoy intimate moments with their partner.
March 15, 2005 (Press Release) --
The Impact of Cancer on Sexuality and Intimacy
Cancer patients know all too well that their disease has far-reaching effects - including the ability to enjoy intimate moments with their partner. However, embarrassment keeps many people from talking to their doctors and getting the help they need.
"Everyone should be able to discuss sex and intimacy concerns with their doctor," says Martha Salas, LMSW, a social work counselor with M. D. Anderson's Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology. "If they can't give you the answer, then they should refer you to someone who can."
Salas readily admits that many doctors are reluctant to discuss their patients' sex lives because of their own personal discomfort or lack of education. "Members of your health care team may pass the buck, saying 'it's not my job,'" she says. "They may also underestimate the importance of sexual issues for their patients."
Virtually all cancer treatments will have some impact on sexuality, whether it's a physical limitation from body-altering surgery or psychological concerns. Some may be temporary, but others cause permanent changes in sexual ability. Some of the most common problems include:
Loss of desire
Urinary incontinence
Bowel problems/ostomy surgery
Erectile dysfunction (impotence)
Pain
Fatigue
Body image changes
Vaginal dryness or change in vaginal elasticity
Anemia
Muscle loss
Irregular menstruation
Cancer patients know all too well that their disease has far-reaching effects - including the ability to enjoy intimate moments with their partner. However, embarrassment keeps many people from talking to their doctors and getting the help they need.
"Everyone should be able to discuss sex and intimacy concerns with their doctor," says Martha Salas, LMSW, a social work counselor with M. D. Anderson's Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology. "If they can't give you the answer, then they should refer you to someone who can."
Salas readily admits that many doctors are reluctant to discuss their patients' sex lives because of their own personal discomfort or lack of education. "Members of your health care team may pass the buck, saying 'it's not my job,'" she says. "They may also underestimate the importance of sexual issues for their patients."
Virtually all cancer treatments will have some impact on sexuality, whether it's a physical limitation from body-altering surgery or psychological concerns. Some may be temporary, but others cause permanent changes in sexual ability. Some of the most common problems include:
Loss of desire
Urinary incontinence
Bowel problems/ostomy surgery
Erectile dysfunction (impotence)
Pain
Fatigue
Body image changes
Vaginal dryness or change in vaginal elasticity
Anemia
Muscle loss
Irregular menstruation
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