Sexuality, Intimacy and Cancer

This booklet has been prepared to help you understand the ways cancer and its treatment may affect your sexuality, sex life and relationships. It does not need to be read from cover to cover - just read the parts that are useful to you. Sexuality and intimacy are an important part of our wellbeing.

Sexuality is part of how we experience physical and emotional closeness, and how we develop and maintain our intimate relationships. It is closely linked to how we relate to ourselves and others.

We hope this booklet helps you find practical ways to adapt to any physical and emotional changes you experience, and discover new ways to enjoy intimacy. The information is relevant to all individuals, regardless of your sexual orientation and whether you are single or in a relationship. In this booklet, the term "partner" means husband, wife, de facto, same-sex partner, boyfriend or girlfriend.