Cancer Treatment Chemotherapy The Sexual Side Effects of Chemotherapy Print By Lisa Fayed Updated September 18, 2018 KatarzynaBialasiewicz / Getty Images More in Cancer Treatment Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Radiation Causes & Risk Factors Diagnosis Living With Support & Coping Prevention Bladder Cancer Brain Tumors Breast Cancer Symptoms Leukemia Lung Cancer More Cancer Types Cervical Cancer Childhood Cancer Colon Cancer Gastric Cancer Head & Neck Cancer Liver Cancer Lymphoma Ovarian Cancer Pancreatic Cancer Prostate Cancer Skin Cancer Testicular Cancer Thyroid Cancer View All Whenever the topic of chemotherapy side effect arises, we tend to think hair loss, weight loss, and how sick the drugs could make us feel. What we don't often think about is sex. Maybe that's because "cancer" and "sex" are two words that seem to cancel each other out when placed together. And, more often than not, sex is the last thing that comes to mind when faced with a cancer diagnosis. But the simple fact is this: intimacy is important when going through cancer treatment. Sex and close intimate contact are known to promote feelings of well-being while moving you closer to your partner when treatment gets tough. is why it's important to understand both the direct and indirect impact chemotherapy can have on your sex life whether you are 17 or 70. Sex and Risk of Infection People will often ask their doctor when is the right time to have or resume sex with their partner. For most undergoing chemotherapy, sex is not only medically permissible, but it’s also encouraged. In other cases, the opposite is true. People undergoing chemo are at often risk of developing neutropenia, a side effect of treatment that results in a low white blood cell count. These cells are vital for fighting off infection, and, without them, we are at risk for illnesses that might otherwise be harmless. And that’s where sex can become a problem. Whether vaginal, anal, or oral, each of these activities have the potential to pass infection. While condoms can usually provide protection, it’s important to speak with your doctor to make an informed choice based on your current health and any risk factors you may have. If your immune system is severely compromised, sexual abstinence may be the only sure way to avoid infection. Chemotherapy Side Effects Chemotherapy can affect your sex life by either diminishing a person’s sexual function or giving rise to infections that can interfere with sex. Some of the most common complaints: Loss of libido can be expected from both men and women undergoing treatment. Chemotherapy often leaves you feeling sapped, with little time or desire for sex. These feelings are only increased when a person feels depressed or experiences things like hair loss or weight loss.Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition in which a man is unable to achieve or sustain an erection. Some chemotherapy drugs are known to cause ED. Yet, even with drugs like Viagra and Cialis, many men still find it difficult to get an erection when faced with the stress and anxiety of cancer therapyVaginal dryness can also occur during chemo, causing pain and irritation due to the lack of natural vaginal lubrication. While water-based lubricants, such as KY Jelly, can definitely help, it’s always a good idea to speak with your doctor to ensure that any over-the-counter product is safe and won’t cause irritation.Vaginal infections are common in women undergoing chemotherapy, especially those taking antibiotics or steroids. The infections can cause pain, burning, and irritation to the vagina, often accompanied by a white vaginal discharge. Avoidance of sex is generally advised until the infection is fully cleared. Genital warts or herpes flare-ups can also be a real problem. Because chemotherapy suppresses the immune system, viruses like human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV) are able to thrive where they might otherwise be controlled. In fact, some people who have never had an outbreak may suddenly be faced with one after starting treatment. How to Cope The good news is that most sexual side effects of chemo will go away after the completion of therapy. Symptoms can vary from person to person, with some being especially hard hit while others have minimal impact. The main thing to remember is that the absence of sex does not mean the absence of intimacy. Even if you are unable to achieve an erection or endure intercourse, intimate touching and caressing can bolster both your outlook and feelings of self-esteem. If experiencing any problems with sexual function, either emotional or physical, don't be shy about expressing them to your partner and doctor. Communication is always key to remaining connected to both yourself and those who can help you. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Limiting processed foods and red meats can help ward off cancer risk. These recipes focus on antioxidant-rich foods to better protect you and your loved ones. Sign up and get your guide! Email Address Sign Up There was an error. Please try again. Thank you, , for signing up. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit Article Sources Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. "The sexual aftermath of cancer." Fred Hutch News Service. Seattle, Washington; July 28, 2016. Continue Reading