We need to talk about sex and cancer
Cancer can impact a person’s life in many ways; their relationships, their bodies, how they are feeling and more. It can touch every part of what makes someone who they are. And we know that for many, sex and intimacy following a cancer diagnosis is a huge concern.
We want to help encourage and support more people to feel confident to have open conversations about sex and cancer. To do this, we have partnered with sexual wellness brand, Lovehoney. The partnership will shine a light on the impact cancer can have on people’s sexual wellbeing and encourage those who are worried to access the support available.
As part of the partnership, over the coming weeks we will be sharing unique stories from people on how their cancer diagnosis impacted their sexual wellbeing. The fourth of which is from Sarah who who was diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer and stage 1 womb cancer in 2020. Here she talks about overcoming the stigma around gynaecological cancers and treatments that impact sexual pleasure.
Hear from our storytellers
Real life experience of sex, intimacy and relationships after a cancer diagnosis can help to break down the taboos. Our incredible Macmillan storytellers have generously shared their stories and how their cancer experience affected their sex life.
Ali's story
Elvin's story
Sarah's story
Sean's story
Ellie's story
Talk to someone about sex and cancer
Our research shows that thousands of people with cancer across the UK are suffering in silence when it comes to issues around sex, which will be causing a huge amount of stress and anxiety for those impacted.
We know that many people may find it hard to raise these issues with their partner or people close to them and that’s where we can come in.
Get information about sex and cancer
If your sexual well-being is affected before, during or after cancer treatment, this does not mean your sex life is over. There may be advice, support or treatments that can help. We have information about the physical, emotional, and practical ways cancer might affect your sex life.
Our partnership with Lovehoney
The people who shared their stories about sex and cancer for this campaign did so as part of Macmillan's partnership with the sexual wellness brand, Lovehoney
You can also get sexual happiness advice on the Lovehoney website from their team of sexpert writers who can provide guidance on all things sex, sex toys, bondage and lingerie.