Let’s talk about sex

The silver bullet: "a classy toy for a classy gal"

OK, now that I have your attention, I want to admit that I’m kind of a prude when it comes to sex. It’s not something I talk about, and it certainly has not been top of mind these days as a person living with cancer. And that’s the problem; I think survivors spend so much time on surviving that they don’t focus on one of the healthiest parts of life: good sex.

I recently met Kelly Hudson, a fellow blogger/writer who works for Pure Romance, a  company that offers “heighteners, lubricants and bedroom accessories for relationship enhancement.” I have been invited to (but not attended) several of their “Girls Night In” parties where they sell their products. 

Looking at their Web site, I didn’t know what I was missing!  Some examples of their products: Ben Wa Balls, gold- plated Oriental exercising balls that strengthen vaginal muscles while offering pleasurable sensations. And there’s toys for guys too, such as Super Stretch Lips … well I’ll let you check that out on their Web site.

But there’s a clinical side to this,  as well. People who’ve gone through cancer treatments often have side effects that make sex … well, a hassle. So  I invited the folks from Pure Romance’s Health Education Dept.  to share their wisdom on my blog:

Cancer can affect a person’s sex life in a number of ways. During treatment, people may find that worry, depression, pain, or fatigue can affect their sexual desire. Men and women sometimes experience different sexual side effects that during and after cancer treatment , including:

Women                                                                       
·      Difficulty reaching orgasm                                    
·      Decreased vaginal lubrication            
·      Pain during sexual activity            
·      Loss of libido/sexual desire                        

Men
·      Difficult getting and maintaining an erection
·      Premature ejaculation
·      Loss of libido/sexual desire
·      Pain during sex
·      Dry orgasm (with no ejaculation)

One way to overcome these potential side effects is reevaluating the definition of sexuality and intimacy. Being intimate does not necessarily mean being sexual; it could be something as basic as holding hands or cuddling. Try to keep an open mind about new sexual experiences and stimulations. What worked before cancer may not have the same effect after cancer. Try new forms of touching and in different places of the body, and experimenting with different times of the day for intimacy.

 Communicate with your partner and health care provider about any sexual side effects you’re experiencing to get the support and help you counter the  sexual side effects of cancer and its treatment.

Another option is the use of intimacy enhancement products. A great line of products is offered through Pure Romance’s Pink Ribbon Line, which is part of our Sensuality, Sexuality, Survival (SSS) program. Pure Romance’s SSS program is a cancer outreach program that focuses specifically on the impact that cancer can have on a person’s sensual life. The SSS program is geared toward men and women before, during, and after cancer treatment, as well as their healthcare providers and other members of their support group.

For more information, visit www.pureromance.com.