Both endometrial cancer and its associated treatments can affect your sexual health. Fear and anxiety related to intimacy or potential pain and discomfort can cause you to delay or completely avoid sex.
However, there are steps you can take to move forward and ensure you enjoy a full and enjoyable sex life.
Emotional effects of endometrial cancer
Your emotional well-being, self-confidence and sexual desire or libido may all be affected by your endometrial cancer journey. The following emotional aspects may cause you to avoid or dread sexual intimacy and intercourse:
- Lack of sexual desire.
- Feeling less sexy and confident.
- Anticipating that sexual intercourse will cause pain or discomfort.
- Stress and anxiety at the thought of intimacy
Physical effects of endometrial cancer
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy and medication are all treatments used to treat endometrial cancer by removing it and preventing its return. However, these treatments can cause physical changes that may be felt during sexual intercourse.
You may experience vaginal dryness due to reduced levels of estrogen, which can increase discomfort. You may also notice changes to the size or shape of your vagina (it may be narrower and shorter) due to radiation, which may cause pain during intercourse. The lining of the vagina might also be less flexible.
Tips for navigating changes to sexual health
Most importantly, take your time and ensure your physical recovery is complete before renewing sexual relations. Starting too early can make things worse.
Ask your doctor for advice on how long to wait post-surgery or the end of treatment before beginning to have sexual relations again. Also, make sure you voice your concerns with your doctor about resuming sexual relations and ask for advice on how to move forward.
Here are some other methods you may want to consider:
Talk to your partner or potential partner about your situation and feelings. Open communication on how to approach sexual relations will reassure you and avoid any awkward moments.
- Consider trying sex toys or avoiding intercourse to begin with, to build confidence and shared pleasure without the anxiety of internal pain or discomfort.
- Look into vaginal dilators that can help your vagina become more open and flexible.
- Pelvic floor exercises or Kegels can help you relax and better control your vaginal muscles and pelvic floor.
- Test out water or silicone-based lubricants to reduce friction and overcome vaginal dryness.
- Consider vaginal estrogens, which can also be effective in reducing vaginal dryness.
- Talk to a counselor or sex therapist experienced in supporting women who have completed gynecological cancer treatment. Ask for techniques to help manage concerns such as your stress and anxiety, lack of confidence or desire. Consider inviting your partner to join a session with you to discuss expectations as a couple.
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