What we dont often think about is sex.

Maybe thats because cancer and sex are two words that seem to cancel each other out when placed together.

But the simple fact is this: Intimacy is important when going through cancer treatment.

Husband hugging wife with cancer

KatarzynaBialasiewicz / Getty Images

In other cases, the opposite is true.

And thats where sex can become a problem.

Whether vaginal, anal, or oral, each of these activities has the potential to pass infection.

If your immune system is severely compromised, sexual abstinence may be the only sure way to avoid infection.

Both men and women should protect against pregnancy during chemotherapy.

Symptoms can vary from person to person, with some being especially hard hit while others have minimal impact.

The main thing to remember is that the absence of sex does not mean the absence of intimacy.

Communication is always key to remaining connected to both yourself and those who can help you.

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American Cancer Society.How cancer can affect erections.

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American Cancer Society.How cancer and cancer treatment can affect sexuality.