Sex After Ovarian Cancer Treatment: Solutions for Patients

One group of common difficulties in post-treatment sexuality are physical results of surgical changes, sometimes related to menopause, that can be expedited by the ovarian cancer treatment itself. Dr. Salani lists vaginal dryness, hot flashes, or even some discomfort during the act of intercourse as typical problems for ovarian cancer patients in the aftermath of surgery and chemotherapy.

Dr. Salani highlights several common methods for dealing with these struggles. One solution is the use of vaginal lubricants. For the most part, these gels are available over the counter, and can counteract both dryness and discomfort during intercourse when applied to the genital area. Other more specialized lubricants may be obtained through prescriptions. Over time, lubricants and other topical medications can actually strengthen the vaginal tissue causing the discomfort, both helping in the moment and creating lasting and positive change in an ovarian cancer survivor's sexual life.

Yet Salani also outlines how sexual issues ovarian cancer survivors face transcend the physical. "There may be some mental aspects to it," Dr. Salani states. "Just a kind of psychological fear of engaging in sexual activity, especially when you're dealing with a gynecologic cancer. And many women experienced this."

Dr. Salani suggests that getting back in touch with familiar sexual behaviors and practices can be a first step toward normalcy. "We encourage patients to engage back into their healthy sexual behaviors," she says. This reintroduction to familiar sexual practices can be the first step toward normalizing a sex life post-treatment, and can also be a good jumping off point for partners to discuss their feelings about the emotional difficulties of fighting ovarian cancer, both as a patient and as a partner. When issues arise, Dr. Salani advises bringing in outside help. "There are resources such as sexual health counseling, which may include both the patient and the partnerssometimes just talking about it and addressing it."

This kind of open candor and conversation can be awkward, but can also be the first step for an ovarian cancer survivor towards both a better sexual relationship with her partner and a better plan of action with her doctors. Dr. Salani believes that these conversations require work, engagement, and a whole lot of patience from all parties involvedsurvivors, their partners, and their doctors. She also believes that patience is the key to a successful sexual recovery. "I believe most patients probably are able to enjoy a healthy sexual life," Dr. Salani states. "But I think sometimes we have to help them to get there, and that can be a time-consuming and experience. But it's important that they talk to their doctors and other providers to help them get there."

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