Cancer and its treatment may affect your sexuality, but every patient is different. Some patients experience sexual changes in all of the phases of ">sexual response, while others experience none.

The most common sexual change for cancer patients is an overall loss of desire. Most men and women are still able to have an orgasm even if cancer treatment interferes with erections or vaginal lubrication, or involves removing some parts of the pelvic organs. However, it is common for patients to need more time or stimulation to reach orgasm.

Unfortunately, when sexual changes do occur, they generally do not improve right away; indeed, they may persist until a good remedy is found. Finding the most helpful remedy may take time and patience because sexual changes can be caused by both psychological and physical factors.

Furthermore, the sexual changes caused by cancer treatment may be long term or permanent. Talk with your doctor, nurse, or another healthcare professional before treatment to learn about what to expect from your cancer or cancer treatment concerning your sexuality. By knowing what may happen, you may be better prepared and more knowledgeable about potential sexual changes.

This section contains more information on sexual changes caused by:

Cancer Treatment in Women

Cancer Treatment in Men

Cancer Treatment Side Effects

Emotional Effects

Anxiety and Depression