Many people avoid talking to healthcare professionals about sexual changes because they feel embarrassed, ashamed, or afraid. Some people feel guilty about "bothering" the doctor, or they worry about "being a good patient." However, all patients have a right to information that affects their quality of life, which includes sexuality. It's normal to feel uncomfortable or awkward, but your doctors, nurses, and social workers are a professional team and have training and experience talking about these issues. If you do encounter a doctor or other healthcare provider who dismisses your concerns and questions about sex, seek a second opinion.

Be as open as possible when providing information to help your doctor find the best solutions and remedies for you.

Listed below are suggestions for beginning a conversation:

• How do you expect that my cancer treatment will affect my sexuality?
• Is it safe for me to have sex? (It is usually safe to have sex during cancer treatment unless your doctor tells you not to. Sex can be a problem if you have bleeding in the genital area from cancer, if you have recently had surgery or radiation implants, or if your immune system is very weakened. Talk with your doctor to see whether it is safe for you to participate in sexual activities.)
• Should I be using contraception to avoid pregnancy during my cancer treatment?
• Are my sexual changes short term, or do you think they are permanent?
• I don't think about sex or feel interested in sexual activity. Why do you think I feel this way?
• I think about sex and would like to participate in sexual activity, but I don't feel that my body is responding the way it did before my cancer or cancer treatment. Why do you think this is happening?
• I feel tired all the time, and it's negatively affecting my sex life. Is there anything I can do to feel better?
• I've noticed changes with my erections since I started this new medicine. What do you think is causing this?
• What are some possible remedies that may help me enjoy sex again?
• How can I find more information about remedies for sexual changes? How do I go about trying one of them?
• My friend told me about a (treatment, herb, supplement, food, etc.) that may help my sexuality. Is it OK to try this?
• I feel embarrassed about starting sexual activity because my body is different. Is it an option for me to have cosmetic or reconstructive surgery? Can you refer me to a counselor?
• I feel nervous (or my partner feels nervous) about starting sexual activity. Could you please reassure me that it's OK? Are you sure that sexual activity won't negatively affect my cancer or cancer treatment?
• My partner told me that (he or she) is worried about catching my cancer or getting sick from my treatment. Could you please reassure us about this?