Sex after BC...or the lack thereof

Socat

I was diagnosed with DCIS a month before my 50th birthday in 2017. I had the lumpectomy, lymph nodes taken, radiation and now tamoxifen therapy.

Prior to this, my hubby and I had an incredible sex life, I mean daily incredible! Since my radiation and having been on tamoxifen for the last 16 months, it has gone down to once a week if we're lucky. My energy and libido are basically at a standstill...and yep, we've tried toys, lubricants, movies, pictures, talking, touching, you name it we've tried it. Anyone else out there having this issue? What have you tried to get yourself back in the game? I suggested energy drinks, but he's afraid of the side effects. Any ideas or thoughts or suggestions would be a huge help! Thanks!

wallan

Hi CathieScott:

Sorry you are going through this. You are not alone. Tamoxifen kills libido. And drains energy. Its the lack of estrogen.

Your hubby sounds patient and understanding. This is good. All you can do is keep doing what you are doing. Its the new normal for now.

wallan

gb2115

That is something we just don't do anymore... mostly because I would be terrified of getting pregnant on tamoxifen (I can't handle the stress, even with birth control I would be constantly worried and I have enough other things to worry about), but the desire is 100% gone. Also with my joint and tendon issues from tamoxifen, I would probably tear something like my hip in the process, lol.

It's the new normal, unfortunately, and it's ok. One of my docs said no sex would be devastating to my marriage and I can say, after 3 years, she was wrong.