Men undergoing cancer treatment may face changes in their sexual lives both during and after therapy. While you may not have the same amount of energy or desire in sexual activity as you did before therapy, being intimate with and feeling close to your spouse or partner is likely to remain vital.
Your doctor or nurse may discuss how cancer treatment may affect your sexual life with you, or you may need to be proactive and ask questions like What sexual changes or problems are prevalent among men undergoing this sort of treatment? During treatment, what methods of birth control or protection are advised?
Other questions to think about asking are given at the bottom of this page. See Fertility Issues in Boys and Men for more information on how treatment may influence your fertility.
Whether or not you will have sexual health issues is determined by factors such as:
- the kind of cancer
- the type of treatment
- the amount of therapy the length of treatment your age at the time of treatment the period since treatment
- various aspects of personal health
Cancer treatments may induce sexual dysfunction in males.
Many of the issues that impede a man’s sexual activity throughout treatment are transient and resolved once treatment is completed. Other adverse effects may be long-lasting or begin after therapy.
Your doctor will discuss any side effects you may have as a result of your treatment with you:
During the treatment phase, chemotherapy may reduce your testosterone levels and libido. Because sperm may carry traces of chemotherapy for a period of time following treatment, you may be advised to use a condom. Chemotherapy normally has no effect on your ability to have an erection.
External-beam radiation therapy to the pelvis (for example, to the anus, bladder, penis, or prostate) and brachytherapy (also known as internal radiation therapy) might have an impact on a man’s sexual function. Erectile dysfunction occurs when blood vessels or nerves are damaged, making it difficult to obtain or maintain an erection. A dry orgasm may occur if the prostate is injured. many people are suffering from erectile dysfunction or male impotence. if you are suffering from erectile dysfunction then you can take Cenforce 100 blue pill.
Hormone therapy can reduce a man’s sexual drive by lowering testosterone levels. It may be difficult to obtain or maintain an erection. Learn more about the adverse effects of Prostate Cancer Hormone Therapy.
Surgery for penile, rectal, prostate, testicular, and other pelvic malignancies may cause nerve damage, making it difficult to obtain and maintain an erection. Nerve-sparing surgery is sometimes done to avoid these issues. As a Windows 8 user, it was particularly helpful that how to recover inpage file you mentioned the built-in tools and also recommended third-party software options.
Pain relievers, antidepressants, and medications that impact the nerves and blood vessels may all have an effect on your sexual drive.
Heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking can all contribute to changes in your sexual health.
Methods for dealing with sexual health issues
People on your healthcare team have helped others deal during this trying period and might give helpful advice. You might also want to speak with a sexual health professional to receive answers to any questions or concerns you have.
Most men can be sexually active throughout therapy, but you should check with your doctor beforehand. For example, during treatment, you may be recommended to refrain from sexual activity if you are at elevated risk of infection or bleeding. Condom use may be advised depending on the sort of treatment you are undergoing.
Your medical team can assist you in the following ways:
Learn about treatments: Your oncologist or urologist will advise you on treatment options based on your symptoms. For example, if a sexual health condition has been identified, medications and gadgets may be prescribed. To enhance blood flow to the penis, medications might be used. There are also surgical treatments in which a hard rod or inflated device (penile implant) is put in the penis to allow for the acquisition and maintenance of an erection.
Find out more about condoms and/or contraception: Condoms may be recommended to protect your partner from chemotherapy medications that may stay in sperm. Contraception may be recommended to prevent pregnancy depending on your partner’s age. See Fertility Issues in Boys and Men for further information.
Handle the following side effects: Discuss with your doctor or nurse any issues that are affecting your sex life, such as pain, weariness, hair loss, loss of interest in activities, unhappiness, or difficulty sleeping. Speaking up about side effects can assist you in receiving the therapy and support you require to feel well.
Get aid and counseling: It will be beneficial to communicate your sentiments and concerns with those close to you during this time. Participating in a professionally moderated or led support group may also be beneficial. Your nurse or social worker can recommend local support groups and counselors.
Visit our directory of national organizations that offer cancer-related support services and select from a list of services to learn more about organizations that give assistance.
Read More: Instruction for Erectile Dysfunction after Prostate Surgery
Discussing sexual health issues with your healthcare team
Make a list of questions to ask your doctor, nurse, or social worker as you reflect on the changes that treatment has brought into your life. Consider including the following on your list:
- What are the most prevalent sexual issues among men undergoing this treatment?
- What sexual issues can I encounter throughout treatment?
- When might these adjustments take place?
- How long will these issues persist? Will any of these issues persist?
- How can these issues be avoided, cured, or managed?
- What precautions must I take during treatment? Is it necessary, for example, to use a condom to safeguard my partner?
- Should my partners and I take birth control to avoid becoming pregnant? What are your recommendations for contraception (birth control)?
- Do you have any suggestions for a support group?