Sex after Chemo

Avalon123

Okay, I don't want to sound like a nymphomaniac or like I am someone that is putting sex over life itself. But it is very important to me. But from everything I have read, chemo is going to kill my sex life. I have not started treatment yet, but know what is coming. Surgery, radiation, chemo and hormone blockers. I can probably overcome the hormone blockers, but nerve damage to my vagina....no. Everyone talks about cold packs to keep their hair, reduce neuropathy to hands and feet. Well I don't care if I'm bald or have neuropathy in hands and feet. I want to retain my awesome sex life. So here is the stupid question....does anyone know if a cold pack on the vagina would reduce neuropathy in this area? Does anyone have any other suggestions? Is there anyone that went through chemo that did NOT have nerve damage in the genital area and is still able to have orgasms?

MinusTwo

Interesting questions. I didn't ever consider neuropathy in the vagina. I do have neuropathy in my feet and a bit in my fingers, but no problems with the genital area. I wonder if the answer would be different for ER/PR+???

Please do go to "my profile" and enter your diagnosis. You can update your profile when you get treatment plans in line.

MountainMia

I had 4 rounds of AC. I had temporary, minor numbness of my vulva, but it went away over several weeks, and I have no problem with having orgasms.

Valuing sex and sexual pleasure isn't stupid or weird or something to be ashamed of. I hope you are able to move through and beyond treatment with no problems in that area of your life.

LMS458412

I'm not on hormone therapy yet, but had 4 rounds of TC and I'm having no issues with nerve damage to my vulva/vagina.

illimae

The likely physical symptoms are dryness and mild atrophy, so use it or lose it. An unexpected issue I’ve had is a simple lack of motivation thanks to hormonal meds but enjoyment is still there.

Good luck!

Spookiesmom

You can search for the thread called I want My Mojo Back. Maybe the ladies there will have some ideas.

OnTarget

I didn't have any issues with loss of sensation with chemo.

Moderators

Hi Avalon and welcome to Breastcancer.org!

We're so sorry for the reasons that bring you here, but we're glad you've found us. As you can already see, our Community is full of very helpful members always willing to lend some advice and their experience. We're all here for you!

As mentioned above, the I Want My Mojo Back! thread may be super helpful with your questions.

In addition, you may want to post in the Sex & Relationship Matters forum.

There're also some helpful resources on the main Breastcancer.org site:

• Sex Matters Blog Series with Dr. Michael Krychman
• Podcast: Sexuality and Breast Cancer: Get Your Mojo Back
• Podcast: Sexuality and Breast Cancer: From Diagnosis to Survivorship

We hope this helps!

--The Mods