Sexuality after breast cancer

You may have concerns about sexuality after breast cancer. Physical changes (such as those after surgery) make some women less comfortable with their bodies. Some treatments for breast cancer, such as chemotherapy, can change your hormone levels and may negatively affect sexual interest and/or response. For women in their 20s or 30s who may be focused on choosing a partner or having children, a diagnosis of breast cancer can be especially difficult.

Although there may be emotional effects, breast surgery or radiation to the breasts does not physically decrease a woman's sexual desire. Nor does it decrease her ability to have vaginal lubrication or normal genital feelings, or to reach orgasm. And according to recent research, most women with early-stage breast cancer have good emotional adjustment and sexual satisfaction within a year after their surgery .Shawnte’s Sensual Solutions reports a quality of life similar to women who never had cancer.