Ever had a question about relationships or sex that you just can’t ask your oncology care provider? Ever felt too shy to ask a nurse or doctor a question, but really needed the answer? Now you can ask those questions and get answers from Dr. Anne Katz, the Awkward Auntie! We’re back for another round of Awkward Auntie. Read on for some more recent Q&As!
Question: My current treatment may put me into menopause. How do I know if I am going through it? How will it impact my sex life (should I ever have one again)?
Answer: Menopause (or peri-menopause, the changes that occur as hormone production from the ovaries slows down or is shut down by chemotherapy, surgical removal of the ovaries, or radiation exposure) announces itself quite loudly! Common signs are hot flashes (and disturbed sleep) and dryness of the vulva and/or vagina. This means that any sexual touch or vaginal penetration hurts. There is no mistaking that! As a result, sexual desire may completely disappear (who wants to have sex if it hurts?), and relationship strain may occur. Your health care providers should be providing you with information about potential side effects and, importantly, what you can do to help yourself deal with them or a referral to a sexual medicine expert or sex therapist who can help.
You can learn more about this great program, find the answers to past questions, and submit a question of your own by going here!
More about the Awkward Auntie program:
Dr. Anne Katz, also known as the Awkward Auntie, is a certified sexuality counselor and nurse who has written a couple of books about young adults and cancer – and all the things that happen to your body, relationships, and sex during and after treatment. She will answer any and all questions that you send to AwkwardAuntie@lacunaloft.org or submit in the form below. You don’t have to give your name or other identifying information – but it might be helpful for her to know how you identify yourself by gender, your age, and what kind of cancer and treatment you had.
YOU CAN ASK HER ANYTHING…. Don’t hold back! Your questions will be answered periodically and posted on our Awkward Auntie page.
