April is Cancer Awareness Month, but one topic that hasn’t gained much awareness is intimacy after a cancer diagnosis.
More often than not, both healthcare practitioners and patients alike are hesitant to discuss the effects of cancer treatment on intimacy.
A leading online psychosocial support group for women with cancer states that changes during or after cancer treatment can be associated with self-blame, rejection, sadness and lack of fulfillment for both parties.
At the heart of the issue is a lack of communication. Not only do women undergoing cancer treatment feel anxious, but they may also feel awkward and exposed talking about intimacy with a professional or even with their partner.
Feeling connected during treatment and afterward can provide not only a sense of normalcy but comfort, strength and hope.
Here is some advice to help cancer patients regain intimacy:
1. Acknowledge feelings of hurt and loss in terms of intimacy. Feelings of loss often get acted out if they aren’t recognized and talked about.
2. Muster up the courage and talk to your partner about your fears. Physical changes brought about by treatment can make many couples afraid to connect physically, but if it’s not discussed, both partners end up feeling disconnected when what they really want is to feel close again.
3. Don’t stop asking until you get the help that you need. Schedule an appointment with your doctor, nurse or therapist. Write down your questions but start with the most pressing question first.
For more information and to connect with others, visit facing-cancer.org
