Sex after Breast Cancer: The Unspoken Issue

Every October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which raises valuable awareness about breast cancer and the importance of getting tested. It has taken decades of hard work to bring global attention to what is the second-leading cause of cancer death in women. Due to Breast Cancer Awareness drives, most women are aware and educated about breast cancer testing, treatments, and post-cancer care. One aspect that seems to be glossed over, however, is the impact of breast cancer on a woman’s sexuality. This month, we want to highlight the less spoken about issue of post breast cancer sexuality and the ways women can reclaim intimacy after breast cancer.

The unfortunate fact is that both breast cancer itself and treatments for breast cancer takes its toll on your sex life. In fact, 7 in 10 breast cancer survivors experience sexual problems. Breast cancer treatments can induce early menopause, can cause extreme fatigue, and mastectomies and scarring often harm a woman’s self confidence and body image.

Sexuality expert and Intimina Medical Advisory Board Member Sue W. Goldstein notes that for so many women when they’ve been seriously ill, they’re afraid to say to the physician “you saved my life, but my sex life went down the tubes can you help me?” They’re fearful of the doctor saying “well, I saved your life, what more do you want?” or the doctor not being able to offer any solutions. The good news is that there is plenty that your doctor or health practitioner can do to help you, and with patience there are wonderful opportunities for you to restore your sex life.

In the following video, Mrs. Goldstein offers inspiring advice on how a woman can regain her sexuality and sex life after a serious illness like breast cancer.

If you or someone close to you has beaten breast cancer and are struggling with the impact it has had on you sexually, the first step is to talk to a healthcare professional. They will be able to advise on how best to begin reclaiming your intimate life. Surviving breast cancer is not only about being alive but living life to the full.

For further information on breast cancer, you can read our 5 Facts About Breast Cancer Article, and you can follow us on Facebook where we will be posting helpful advice and tips on post breast cancer sexuality throughout the month.