Whenever there are changes in your body, whether due to illness, or treatment, or even emotional stress, your feelings of femininity or masculinity may be threatened. This can be due to changes in role function (what you do each day as a parent, employee, etc.), a changed body image, or a change in your ability to function sexually. In the early 1960's and even in the 1990's noted sex experts, Masters and Johnson, explained that many couples that are physically and mentally healthy have sexual problems.¹⁹ Therefore, it becomes clear that you, as a cancer patient, may likely have sexual concerns because of the added stress of your illness, the treatment, and side effects.

Quality of life may soon become a concern once you are assured that you will live past the initial cancer diagnosis. You may then wonder if the things that they have taken for granted like work, recreation, parenting, social activities and a sexual relationship are still possible. Depending on the type of cancer and the treatment side effects that you might experience (like fatigue, nausea and vomiting, pain or discomfort), both bodily and emotional changes can occur that can have an effect on your sexual interest, ability, and feelings of self-esteem. Remember: changes in how you feel about yourself during times of stress, such as during and after a cancer diagnosis, are NORMAL.