Breast cancer can affect intimacy in a relationship and during treatment your partner may lose interest in sexual activities, or you may be concerned about how sexual activity may affect you or your partner.

Intimacy can be achieved in many ways and does not necessarily mean intercourse – a romantic evening out, holding hands, cuddling in bed or on the couch, kissing, touching, or exploring the person’s new body together are some examples of intimacy.

From the time your loved one is diagnosed, it’s important to have open communication with each other. Both you and your partner may be feeling a range of emotions that can interfere with the desire for sex. Be honest with your thoughts and feelings and understand that it may take some time for you and your loved one to feel comfortable with each other again.

Some women and their partners may need counselling to help them cope with these feelings and the effects of breast cancer on their sex life. If you feel you and your partner need help, talk to her health care team about the resources available in your community.