Many women are diagnosed with gynecological cancer every year. If you receive such a diagnosis, you may not immediately think of the impact on your sex life. Yet intimacy is an important part of your quality of life. That is why we think it is important to proactively raise the subject of ‘sexuality’ with our patients early in the care process.
Gynecological cancer
In 2019, almost 3000 women in Belgium were diagnosed with a gynecological cancer: a cancer of the vagina and vulva, cervix (cervix) or ovaries. In 2020-2021, we treated 61 invasive gynecological tumors at the Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Fertility department on campus Sint-Jan. Advances in screening and treatment options have greatly increased survival rates for these types of cancer. That is why we find it increasingly important to estimate the psychological and medical long-term consequences at an early stage in the care process of our patients and to limit them where possible.
Impact on sexuality
Cancer has an impact on your sex life in several ways. Often your need for intimacy and sexuality does not diminish. Nevertheless, you can experience changes in your sexual experience during the treatment, and often long afterwards. Whether sexual difficulties occur and how they present themselves differs individually.
Surgery, pelvic radiation and chemotherapy can impact your sexual function. For example, your vaginal wall may be less sensitive, or you may suffer from vaginal dryness, reduced desire or menstrual disorders.
In addition, your sexual experience can change. Physical changes, such as sudden menopausal symptoms, hair loss or weight changes can affect your body image and self-esteem. Feeling less feminine or desirable, or feelings of shame can interfere with your ability to experience sexual pleasure.
Finally, it also has an impact on your partner relationship, because a lack of the connecting power of intimacy can be a great loss for you and your partner. You may also find it uncomfortable to ‘start’ again after a prolonged period without sexuality as a result of the treatment. Fortunately, there are several ways to reshape your sexual relationship, such as adjusting your expectations and being content with what is still possible, or looking for alternative ways to get aroused and to be intimate, without penetration.
Tools
Couples are sometimes able to explore new possibilities themselves, others benefit from the help of a sexologist. Depending on your questions and needs, certain tools can also be used. Pelottes are plastic rods that we often recommend after treatment for gynecological cancer as exercise material to keep your vagina flexible. For vaginal dryness, a moisturizing product can help keep the vaginal tissue moist for several hours. Vaginal moisturizing products are available in the form of vaginal tablets, gel or cream. Finally, there are lubricants that can help you moisten the labia.
Clear communication
Although many cancer patients experience sexual complaints during and after treatment, communication and care are still substandard. That is why we think it is important to proactively raise the subject of ‘sexuality’ with our patients early in the care process. We can prevent many sexual problems by talking about them sooner. A first important step is to discuss the subject in the consultation room and to inform you as a patient about possible changes in your sexual experience. We would also like to emphasize that sexual life after cancer is still possible and that we can provide you with various resources in case of difficulties.
Contact details of the Psychology department of the Sint-Jan campus
t: 050 45 24 70
e: [email protected]