Should I stop having sex if I've been diagnosed with lymphoma?:
Not at all. The disease does not aggravate if you continue your sex life. Nor can you transmit the disease to your partner during sex. Maintaining a sex life can be physically and emotionally beneficial.
Can I have sex while I'm on treatment?:
There is usually no problem with sex during treatment. Only if there is a fall in platelet counts that may cause easy bruising, should there be any restriction on sex. Feel free to continue your sex life while on treatment.
Will treatment affect my sexual performance?:
Treatment for lymphoma can cause hormonal changes, mainly in women. This may lead to a loss in libido or sexual desire. Radiation to the genital areas may cause dryness in both men and women. Libido is usually preserved for men. There should be no problem in performing the sexual act.
Why then don't I feel up to it?:
Many patients feel stress and depression about their disease, during treatment and well after treatment is over. Apprehension regarding the outcome reduces sexual desire and may sometimes affect performance. Treatment related fatigue may persist for a few months after treatment is completed. Loss of appetite reduces food intake and may cause weakness. These, rather than disease related factors, are often more important causes of reduction in libido or performance.
Why does my partner not seem too keen?:
Just like you, your partner may be worried about the treatments you are receiving and outcome of your disease. He or she may subconsciously feel that sex may be too strenuous or harmful for you. Patients often feel that they are no longer attractive or desirable to their partner. But love and sex involve more than just outward attractiveness. Your partner sees more than just the changes in your appearance. It often helps to have a frank discussion about all these issues with your partner.
What can I do about it?:
Don't lose your confidence. Reduce stress and apprehension with activities that make you feel good. Speak openly with your partner about your feelings, and encourage him or her to share their feelings with you. Try to maintain physical closeness and affection by non-sexual means. Holding hands, hugging and petting may keep the two of you together during this temporary phase. If you feel the need, seek the help of a sex-counselor or therapist. They can help the two of you come together.
