www.cancer.gov 43 For men: Talk with your doctor or nurse about: Î Sex. Ask your doctor or nurse if it is okay for you to have sex during chemotherapy. Most men can have sex, but it is a good idea to ask. Ask if you should use a condom when you have sex, since traces of chemotherapy may be in your semen. Î Birth control. It is very important that your spouse or partner not get pregnant while you are getting chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can damage sperm and cause birth defects. If you are having sex less often, try activities that make you feel close to each other. For everyone: Î Be open and honest with your spouse or partner. Talk about your feelings and concerns. Î Explore new ways to show love. You and your spouse or partner may want to show your love for each other in new ways while you go through chemotherapy. For instance, if you are having sex less often, you may want to hug and cuddle more, bathe together, give each other massages, or try other activities that make you feel close to each other. Î Talk with a doctor, nurse, social worker, or counselor. If you and your spouse or partner are concerned about sexual problems, you may want to talk with someone who can help. This person can be a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, marriage counselor, sex therapist, or clergy member. Ways to learn more American Cancer Society Offers a variety of services to people with cancer and their families. Call: 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345) Visit: www.cancer.org
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