Lung Cancer

• Consider using a waterbed. Water movement will carry you without much effort and reduce exertion during sex.
• Take extra pillows and covers off of the bed to allow you to feel less closed-in.
• Avoid long kisses on the mouth because this can create the sense of not getting enough air to breathe.
• Avoid positions that put pressure on your chest and restrict your breathing.
• Making love on a pad on the floor may help remove your fear of sinking into a soft surface or not getting enough air.
• Soft caressing or light massage with oils or creams is exciting and can help relax you and reduce your pain and discomfort.
• To conserve energy, you may try mutual masturbation while watching adult movies. This can promote intimacy and closeness.
• Decrease the use of perfumes, colognes, hairsprays and other irritants that can trigger broncho-spasm and coughing.
• Just being close, holding hands, and sharing other intimate moments can enhance feelings of femininity and masculinity, especially if you have to be in the hospital.
• Pace yourself and save your energy during the day if sex is likely to occur in the evening.

Planning romantic times is often necessary especially with the demands on you and your partner from the illness, gong to the doctor, and other daily activities. A good sexual experience must be planned. A healthy sexual relationship should be on the top of the list of your priorities.

Because there are changes that must be made to be able to continue a sexual life together, you and your partner should feel comfortable talking about sexual and possible breathing needs. Both of you must be open to conversation because "mind reading" never works well and too many assumptions may occur if you don't make your needs and wishes known. Think and talk about what you CAN DO as a couple.