Nearly 90% of cancer survivors report a major concern with sexual health and function
The two most common issues are loss of libido and painful sex.
Low Libido
Loss of libido after a breast cancer diagnosis can have many causes, including physical and emotional changes from the disease and treatments.
There are several side effects of breast cancer treatments that can lead to lowered libido: anxiety, depression, hair loss, weight changes, nausea, fatigue, trouble sleeping, constipation, diarrhea, lymphedema, mouth and throat sores, and vaginal dryness
Your cancer care team can help you manage any side effects you might be having.
Getting the help you need to manage side effects can help improve your overall well-being, which can also lead to improved sexual function
Pain with Sex
Did you know that 52% of women up to six months post-breast cancer treatment report sexual dysfunction and 19-26% continue to report sexual dysfunction 5 to 10 years after their diagnosis.
If you are dealing with painful sex, the good news is that there are treatment options available.
Many women benefit from working with a pelvic physical therapist. Pelvic Physical Therapists Use several techniques together such as:
- Manual therapy to improve relaxation of the pelvic floor
- Exercises to target muscles that may need to be strengthened or stretched
- Provide Lubricant education, for example:
- Vaginal moisturizers can temporarily increase the water content of the vaginal cells.
- Water or silicone based vaginal lubricants may reduce friction and make intercourse more comfortable.
- Products containing alcohol/preservatives may cause irritation
- Water-based or silicone-based lubricants can be used safely with latex condoms. However oil-based lubricants should never be used with latex condoms.
Many patients benefit from working with counselors who specializes in helping people who are experiencing problems in their sexual relationship. Know that sexual dysfunction after breast cancer treatments is common, but not normal. There are options to help you return to an active pain-free sex life. Set up a FREE phone call to talk to one of our skilled pelvic floor physical therapist’s to see how we can help you!
