Sexual and Fertility Changes
in Women
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"Talk with your doctor before you start treatment. Ask how chemotherapy could affect your ability to have children. " |
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Talk with your doctor or nurse before treatment starts to learn what sexual changes or changes to your fertility
you may have.
The changes you may have depend
on the kind of chemotherapy you'll be getting and the type of cancer you have. Your age and other health issues are
also important.
Chemotherapy can harm an unborn baby (fetus). Ask what birth control methods you or your partner should use.
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You might have:
- Dryness or itchy feeling in the vagina
- Hot flashes
- Infections of the vagina or bladder
- Periods that are not regular or
no periods (menstruation)
- Stress, fatigue, or little interest in sex
Talk with your doctor or nurse to learn how to manage these changes. Ask how they can be treated and how long these problems may last.
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"Hot flashes were easier to handle when I carried a small hand fan. I also wore a short-sleeved shirt under my sweater, so I could take my sweater off during a hot flash." |
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"I used a cream to help with vaginal dryness, and I used a lubricant to feel more comfortable when I had sex." |
Ask your nurse what products or
brands can help.
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Be open and honest with your partner. Talk about your feelings and concerns. Find new ways to show love and be close. It may also help to talk with a doctor, nurse, social worker, counselor, or people in a support group.
Yes, all women who have not gone through menopause should use birth control. Or their partner should use a method of birth control. Talk with your doctor or nurse to learn what you should do. Don't get pregnant during treatment, because it can harm an unborn baby (fetus).
If you would like to have children, talk with your doctor before you start treatment. Your doctor can talk with you about your choices
and refer you to a fertility specialist.
Talk with your doctor or nurse to learn about special instructions to follow.
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- What problems should I call you about?
- What can help with sexual problems?
- Can you give me the name of a social worker or counselor who I can talk with?
- What birth control method would you suggest that my partner or I use?
- What can I do now if I would like to have children in the future?
- Can you give me the name of a fertility specialist who can tell me more?
- After treatment is over, how long do I need to keep using birth control?
Free Services to Learn More |
National Cancer Institute
Cancer Information Service
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