Sex After Cancer
Sex after cancer is complicated. What you are feeling is very normal. But things can get better.
Low sexual desire is common after menopause or cancer treatment. Hormonal changes, medications, fatigue, pain, and body image concerns can all affect intimacy. In addition to addressing side effects of medication or vaginal changes that can cause pain with sex, many people notice improvement through learning, reflection, and open communication. The resources below offer evidence-based, inclusive, and practical tools to help reconnect with sexuality and pleasure.
Learn more:
Webinar
Apps and Online Tools
Books
Podcasts
Check out this new webinar:
Stanford doctors, Dr. Kathryne Sanserino, MD and Dr. Catherine Benedict, PhD discuss common sexual health concerns during and after cancer treatment, available treatments and resources, and how to identify approaches that will work for you.
· Common changes in desire, arousal, comfort, and sexual function
· Low libido and the ways in which cancer changes your relationship to your body and sexuality
· Vaginal dryness, pain with sex, changes in desire, and treatment options
· Body image, intimacy, fear, and communication with partners
· Practical strategies for rebuilding a satisfying sex life after treatment
Kathryne Sanserino, MD, FACOG, MSCP, is a board-certified gynecologist and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. She is a recognized expert in the management of hormones in the setting of cancer and in non-hormonal treatment options for menopausal symptoms and sexual dysfunction. She developed and directs the Stanford Gynecology Cancer Survivorship and High-Risk Program.
Catherine Benedict, PhD, is a clinical associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences within Stanford University School of Medicine, member of the Stanford Cancer Institute, and Director of the Women’s Sexual Health & Cancer clinic. As a clinical psychologist, she specializes in supporting women as they cope with the impact of cancer treatment on sexual and reproductive health. Her research aims to improve long-term cancer survivorship for young adult survivors, particularly related to fertility and family building.
Apps and Online Tools
Dipsea - erotic audio stories designed to help spark desire. Free trial; paid subscription.
Research-based education on sexual pleasure. One-time moderate payment for lifetime access.
Inclusive sexual health information and articles on menopause and survivorship. Free online.
Mindfulness tools for reconnecting with sensation, especially after cancer or menopause.
Practical, compassionate guide to sexuality after cancer treatment.
Books
Rebuilding confidence, comfort, and connection with your body and partner
How stress, context, and body awareness shape desire.
Keeping passion and closeness alive after major life changes.
Body acceptance and self-love after physical or emotional change.
Podcasts
Practical, inclusive advice for maintaining pleasure through life transitions.
(Episode 187: “When Your Libido Leaves the Building... and How to Tempt It Back In”) – intimacy, low libido, and rebuilding sexual connection after cancer treatment.
Real couples explore desire and connection after change.