Cancerbackup: Sexuality

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Q&As on this topic

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1. Having cancer has had a big impact on my ability to enjoy sex. This is really hard to talk about. Who can I go to for help?

last reviewed: 01.05.2009

2. My partner is having chemotherapy and we’d like to have sex but we’re worried it might be harmful. Is it OK or do we have to stop having sex until after chemo is finished? We’re too embarrassed to ask anyone at the hospital...

last reviewed: 01.05.2009

3. I have to have one of my testicles removed as I have testicular cancer. Will this affect my sex life?

last reviewed: 01.05.2009

4. I have to have one of my testicles removed as I have testicular cancer. I’m worried this will affect my masculinity. If it does, can a man have hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and if so how is it given?

last reviewed: 01.05.2009

5. How will I feel physically and emotionally after an orchidectomy?

last reviewed: 21.05.2009

6. I have prostate cancer. Is there a risk of transferring this during intercourse?

last reviewed: 01.05.2009

7. I have recently had treatment for prostate cancer which has left me impotent. I am finding this difficult to cope with. What can I do?

last reviewed: 01.05.2009

8. I have got to have a hysterectomy for early cancer of the womb. I'm too embarrassed to ask the hospital staff but I wondered if it is possible to have sex afterwards and whether it feels any different.

last reviewed: 01.05.2009

9. I have been told I need to use contraception to avoid becoming pregnant for a year after my cancer treatment. Where can I go for advice on contraception?

last reviewed: 01.05.2009

10. I am 42 years old. I recently had surgery for breast cancer and am having chemotherapy. My periods have stopped; does this mean I am going through the menopause?

last reviewed: 01.05.2009

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All Q&As are selected from some of the thousands asked by people contacting Cancerbackup every year. They are answered by specialists and reviewed and updated regularly.


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Q&As

Sexual relationships campaign

Has cancer had an impact on your relationship? For help and support and to break the taboo on talking about sex and cancer take a look at our campaign.