Relationships
Dating and Marriage | Intimacy | Your Parents | Your Friends
Intimacy
You may experience sexual concerns caused by fertility issues and health worries. Your ability to perform sexually might also be affected by depression, guilt, fear or fatigue. Sometimes, low self-esteem leads people to engage in sex less frequently, feel more anxious about sex, have difficulty becoming aroused or deriving pleasure from sex, avoid sex or engage in it too freely or dangerously.
The key to overcoming confusion about sexuality is to be honest—with your partner and your doctor. Discussing reproductive issues and sexual concerns can be embarrassing and scary. However, the benefits of an open discussion far outweigh keeping these concerns unspoken.
Discussing these issues and working to feel good about yourself will help you have healthier and happier relationships.
You may also benefit from seeking professional counseling. It’s important to be well informed about possible sexual and/or fertility problems and to be willing to talk about these concerns with your partner, your doctor and, if needed, a counselor. If you need additional help related to sexual issues, you can obtain referrals to a licensed sex therapist or counselor through the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists (www.aasect.org).
Studies show that the marriage rate is generally the same for cancer survivors as for the general public. Working on intimacy can be difficult, but openly addressing these issues and developing positive self-esteem will help you strengthen your relationship.