Head & Neck Cancer

• You may wish to have a gastrostomy (stomach) tube placed, if you have a feeding tube coming out of your nose that can interfere with kissing and facial petting.
• Sugarless mints and artificial saliva (spit) often help to freshen stale breath caused by a dry mouth from radiation treatment. Artificial saliva can be purchased over the counter (Mois-Stir^®, Xerolube^®), and they also help to prevent tooth decay. You may also try a drug called Saligen^® but a prescription is needed. If your mouth is sore, a new drug called Gelclair^® can be used; this also requires a prescription and it can be quite expensive.
• You may have a decreased sense of smell so that perfumes won't be appreciated. However, candles (scented or not) will create a romantic and relaxed surrounding for both of you.
• If you have a tracheostomy, this should be cleaned and lightly covered during sexual activity. Covers can be obtained from Byram Health Care Center, Inc. at 1-800-354-4054.
• Your partner should be made aware that your breathing might sound different. If your larynx (voice box) has been removed, esophageal voice training may provide a sexy voice and whispered love talk once again, although it will sound different.
• You may need to try several positions for love making since your partner may be afraid that they will cut off your air supply. Remember, you can and should talk to your partner about what you need and want, and he or she should do the same. This is how you will find what will work best for you, and be able to feel sexually close to one another. It may be difficult at time, but the reward is worth it!
• Women may wish to wear some erotic neck-wear or high neck nightgown; men may wish to wear a dickey.