How Cancer Impacts Women's Sexual Health

How Cancer Impacts Women's Sexual Health: Expert Insights from Dr. Kristin Rojas

When men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, they are informed upfront about the potential impact on their sexual function. However, women facing cancer diagnoses often receive little to no guidance about how treatments may affect their sexual health. Dr. Kristin Rojas, a breast surgical oncologist and gynecologic surgeon, is working to change that.

In an episode of Fempower Health, Dr. Rojas discusses the overlooked reality of sexual health challenges for women with cancer. From chemotherapy-induced menopause to painful sex and decreased libido, she sheds light on the biological and psychological effects of treatment—and what women can do about it.

The Overlooked Side of Cancer Treatment

More than 80% of women undergoing cancer treatment report sexual dysfunction, yet this critical issue is rarely addressed in medical consultations. Dr. Rojas founded the MUSIC (Menopause Urogenital Sexual Health and Intimacy Clinic)to fill this gap, providing comprehensive care to women experiencing sexual side effects from cancer treatment.

The Biological and Emotional Impact of Cancer on Sexual Health

• Chemotherapy and Hormonal Changes: Chemo-induced menopause causes a sudden drop in estrogen, leading to symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and decreased elasticity, making intimacy painful.

• Pelvic Radiation Effects: Treatments can shorten or narrow the vagina, making penetration difficult or even impossible without medical intervention.

• Psychological Factors: A cancer diagnosis itself is emotionally overwhelming, often leading women to deprioritize their sexual well-being while focusing on survival.

Key Strategies for Restoring Sexual Health

Dr. Rojas emphasizes that women can take proactive steps to maintain and regain their sexual health before, during, and after treatment:

1. Reduce Irritants: Avoid artificial fragrances, harsh soaps, and chemical-laden personal care products that exacerbate vaginal dryness and discomfort.

2. Moisturize Regularly: Use vaginal moisturizers with hyaluronic acid (e.g., Revaree, Good Clean Love) to maintain tissue hydration.

3. Use Silicone-Based Lubricants: Unlike water-based options, silicone lubricants like Uberlube provide long-lasting comfort without irritation.

4. Consider Vaginal Estrogen (if safe for your condition): Local estrogen therapy can significantly improve symptoms for many women without increasing cancer risk.

5. Seek Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: A specialized PT can help relax tense muscles and reduce pain associated with intimacy.

6. Try Dilators or Devices Like Ohnut: These tools can help women gradually adjust to penetration and reduce discomfort.

Breaking the Silence: The Need for Better Patient Advocacy

A major barrier to addressing these issues is the lack of medical education on female sexual dysfunction post-cancer treatment. Dr. Rojas encourages patients to advocate for themselves—bringing up concerns with their healthcare providers.

“They may get really flustered, and not really have an answer for you but if five patients that day in the clinic ask them the same question, we want to help. They're going to go home, they're going to call their friends, they're going to look it up online, they're gonna come up with the resources so that the next time you ask, they're gonna have something for you,” she says.

Listen to the Full Conversation

For an in-depth discussion on how cancer impacts women's sexual health and practical solutions to reclaim intimacy, listen to the full interview with Dr. Kristin Rojas on Fempower Health.

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