Hematologic Malignancies
(Leukemias, Lymphomas, Multiple Myeloma)

• You will most likely have low blood counts during your treatment. When you are neutropenic (total low white blood cell count drops below 1000), you should avoid genital, oral, or anal intercourse. Kissing on the mouth should also be avoided. You may still get pleasure from hand holding, caressing and touching (after washing your hands). Bathing together in a nice warm bubble bath provides a nice intimate feeling without the risk of infection. Make it romantic with candles, wine (in plastic glasses) and a little music.
• If your platelets (cells that help clot the blood) are below 20,000, again intercourse of any kind puts you at risk for bleeding and should be avoided until the platelet count is at a safe level (ask your healthcare provider what that level is).
• Use water -soluble lubricants (Astroglide^®, Slippery Stuff^®, KY^® lubricant) to help prevent friction and irritation to the penis and vagina.
• If you get nauseated or are having pain, take medications about ½ to 1 hour before intercourse is planned to try to avoid these feelings before lovemaking begins.
• Avoid the stress of a heavy meal or a lot of alcohol before intercourse.
• Plan on a nap before sex to reduce fatigue. The side-lying position uses less energy. Also, avoid extremes in temperature in the room, which causes your body to use energy to either keep you warm, or to cool you off.
• If your complexion is pale due to decreased red blood cells, wear bright colors and use make-up to liven up your appearance.
• You should always use a safe and proven method of birth control during chemotherapy and/or radiation. Although chemotherapy will reduce sperm count and ovulation, DO NOT depend on this for birth control. Pregnancy can occur while you are on chemotherapy, and chemotherapy can often cause birth defects in the unborn child. chemotherapy and get pregnant.