Can I Still Have Sex While I’m Being Treated for Cancer?

Side effects can be debilitating for women, but there are ways to battle sexual dysfunction.

Goldfarb and Jenn Kennedy, Ph.D., a sex and couples therapist at Riviera Therapy in Santa Barbara, California, have four important pieces of advice for women undergoing treatment for cancer.

1. Recognize body image concerns
“Body image is a loud, internal critic,” said Kennedy, adding that working through and reducing negative thoughts that get in the way of sexual desire, such as hair loss, is common.

She suggested patients find support groups or group therapy sessions because they can be empowering and will help to normalize their feelings.