Does cancer cause problems in a relationship?
In most relationships, serious illness can result in anxiety and uncertainty. Furthermore, the patient may be afraid that sex could cause physical injuries. Even after patients recover, they may worry that having sex will cause the illness to break out again. People may also have irrational fears that the illness may be contagious or sexually transmitted. These kinds of thoughts and misconceptions can make a relationship come to a standstill. It’s vital for couples in this situation to talk to each other – and to a doctor – to dispel any fears or uncertainties. They may also benefit greatly from being referred to a medical expert specialising in psychosexual medicine, or from getting some counselling with a sex or relationship therapist.
