How chemotherapy may affect your sex life

Some people carry on with their sex lives as normal during chemotherapy treatment. Other folk find that the treatment changes how they feel both emotionally and physically. If there are changes in your physical life, or in sexuality, the changes may not be permanent. Depending on the nature of your illness, and the degree of chemo you might need, it may affect the desire for sexual activity in both men and women having treatment. On the positive side for men, chemo treatment very seldom causes erectile dysfunction. Should your libido lie low for a while, remember that there are other ways to show affection in an intimate relationship, like kissing or cuddling, or just doing things together to stay close.

How chemotherapy can affect a relationship

Not all relationships are on a firm, strong footing, and some are at the point of a disaster waiting to happen! Men and women are also very different when it comes to responding to trauma situations. The stronger the relationship is, the better a couple will cope if one of the partners has an issue for which chemo is needed. Although some emotional issues like stress and anxiety may need to be dealt with, many men and women are able to lead normal lives during chemo treatment.

Some common problems that can occur include:

• A temporary loss of sex drive.
• Feeling more tired than usual.
• Some nausea, which is now treated with special medication.

It's always advisable to use a high-quality condom during sexual activity while undergoing treatment, as advised by your care team.

Most of these side effects are temporary, and help is available if you want to continue intimacy with your partner. However, if you have a close relationship with your partner, you can discuss things in a loving manner, and agree to wait it out until things are back to normal. Chemo medications have evolved over the years, and there have been many improvements which have made it easier for patients to cope, and recover with minimal side effects.

We can help

If you are going through the trials of chemo treatment, or have been through a treatment programme, your libido may have taken a dive. We can help you restore your sexual desire, and give you the ability to once again have successful, enjoyable sexual encounters.

Herbal Remedies International has a range of natural, potent herbal products which have been formulated to enhance the sexual performance of both men and women, and help combat and restore low libido.

Our products are safe to use and do not require a doctor's prescription.

Visit us at www.herbalremedies.co.za to view our range of products, and see how we can help you.