sexual issues. there are a number of physical changes that often occur with diagnosis, treatment,...
TRANSCRIPT
SEXUAL ISSUES
CANCER
There are a number of physical changes that often occur with diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship of cancer.
PHYSICAL
The emotional effects of cancer can be at least as important as the physical aspects
EMOTIONAL
Physical
Emotional
4
Surgical: Pain, numbness, removal of sensitive tissues, removal of hormone producing tissues
COMMON SEXUAL EFFECTS OF CANCER TREATMENT
Surgical effects on sexual function depend on age, sexual and bladder function prior to surgery, tumor location and
size, and amount of tissue removed.
The main cause of problems with erection or orgasm is the injury of nerves in the pelvic cavity by cutting or damage to
the blood supply.
MEN
Following surgery to remove organs from the abdomen or pelvis may have pain and loss of sexual function depending
on the amount of tissue removed.
WOMEN
MEN
Damages arteries supplying blood to the penis.
Scar tissue can cause problems with nerves and
blood flow.
Women
Infertility
Pain from irritation
Potential scar tissue
RADIATION
LOSS OF DESIRE MORE TIME OR STIMULATION NEEDED TO
REACH ORGASM
MOST COMMON SEXUAL EFECTS
SEXUAL HISTORY
SEXUAL PREFERENCES ARE STRONGLY ESTABLISHED AND
ENDURE OVER TIMEIF YOU
DIDN’T ENJOY SEX BEFORE CANCER TREATMENT YOU ARE NOT LIKELY TO PURSUE SEXUAL ACTIVITY AFTER TREATMENT
HETEROSEXUAL
HOMOSEXUAL
MASTURBATION
BODY TYPE
FANTASIES
PREFERENCE
IF YOU DON’T HAVE A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR PARTNER YOU
WILL BE LESS LIKELY TO WANT TO ENGAGE IN SEX WITH THAT PERSON
DEPRESSION: COMMON SYMPTOMS INCLUDE DISTURBANCES IN APPETITE,
SLEEP, AND SEX DRIVE.
ANXIETY: INTERFERES WITH SEXUAL INTEREST AND THE ABILITY TO RELAX
DURING INTIMATE MOMENTS.
MOOD
1. Talk with the doctor about symptoms and potential physical issues related to medication, chemotherapy, surgical, and
radiation
2. Do things you believe will enhance your physical attractiveness to make yourself more comfortable.
3. Tackle embarrassment issues gradually. One step at a time. Taking small steps will increase your confidence
Don’t be afraid to experiment on your own. Self expression is a good way to start. Remember to keep an open mind
THINGS TO TRY
Visual stimulation is generally more powerful for men than for women but can be a powerful tool for both sexes.
Olfactory senses are important also. Certain scents can recall pleasant images.
Tactile stimulation can vary from soft to intense depending on the situation. Remembering that following treatment the time and intensity of
stimulation need adjustment.
Novelty: Try new things and new places. Vary the old “routine” this serves best to increase sexual interest
Remember to allow time. The effects of cancer and cancer treatment decrease over time.
TYPES OF STIMULATION
ANTIDEPRESSANTS
BLOCKERS
SEDATIVE/HYPNOTICS
ANTICONVULSANTS
MEDICATIONS
PAIN MEDICATIONS
SLEEPING MEDICATIONS
ANTIHISTAMINES
BLOOD PRESSURE MEDICATIONS