Is it safe to be sexually active during cancer treatment?
Most people can be sexually active during cancer treatment. Still, the National Cancer Institute advises confirming this with your doctor, because it depends on your treatment and your situation.
There may be times when you are advised to pause. At some points in treatment, the risk of infection or bleeding is higher, and you may be advised to avoid sexual activity then. Depending on the treatment, using a condom may be advised, because some chemotherapy can stay in body fluids for a time. Contraception may also be advised to prevent pregnancy during treatment.
Many changes to sexual health during treatment are temporary and improve once treatment ends. Others may last longer. Related side effects such as pain, fatigue, and low mood can affect your sex life too, and speaking up about them can help you get support.
The right guidance depends on your specific treatment. So ask your care team what is safe for you, what precautions to take, and whether there are times to avoid sexual activity. Your doctor, nurse, or a sexual health expert can answer these questions.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Sexual Health Changes During Cancer
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