Intercourse after chemo and radiation

LisaMMiles
LisaMMiles Member Posts: 38
in Anal Cancer #1

So I am a month out and I have to say that sex is very painful even though I have been using dialators. When does the pain go away? It is terrible pain!! Any help on how to make this better?

Comments

  • torrance
    torrance Member Posts: 118
    #2
    Pain...

    Lisa,

    A huge Kudos to you for even trying!  I couldn't even start PPT until seven months out and it was excruciating.  Each of us heals at a different rate, don't expect too much too soon.  However, for me it did get better with time.  You could ask your DR for some Lidocaine ointment, it helped me make my PPT a little more tolerable, but it was still painful.  Considering you are only a month out from treatment, you still have plenty of time to expect things to feel better.  My heart goes out to you.

    Joanne

  • jena58
    jena58 Member Posts: 19
    #3
    Help?

    Sorry, i don't know how to help but I can tell you that for me, it has been2 and a half years since pelvic radiation and I still can't have sex without pain both during and for 24 yours after. My pain is both vaginal and deep in the guts. Probably a case of both shortening and narrowing. I think the dilators only do so much and then it's a case of grit the teeth and let the real thing do the rest, gently....gently....slowly....slowly..., don't be is discouraged by my situation, everyone is different, just don't put too high expectations on yourself so soon out of treatment. All the best to you.

  • Barb5454
    Barb5454 Member Posts: 125
    #4
    Lisa MMiles

    I know how you feel. I'm 3 months post treatment and I'm still having troubles. My boyfriend and I try weekly and it is still too painful, but each time it gets a little bit better. Hang in there!

  • jbug2
    jbug2 Member Posts: 73
    #5
    Finished treatment back in

    Finished treatment back in January of this year, and I too, am wondering if it ever gets back to pain free.  Astroglide plus dilator in the shower nearly daily I think might be helping (Making a face here).  I also use the estrogen creme (2 x wkly) the doctor prescribed with the dilators and Astroglide when I know my husband has a long weekend coming up, then go hop in bed.  Try different positions angles of entry, etc.  At first, I have to admit "it" was a lot worse, gradually it's getting better just want to forget chemo/rad ever happened.

  • marknyc
    marknyc Member Posts: 6
    #6
    jbug2 said:

    Finished treatment back in

    Finished treatment back in January of this year, and I too, am wondering if it ever gets back to pain free.  Astroglide plus dilator in the shower nearly daily I think might be helping (Making a face here).  I also use the estrogen creme (2 x wkly) the doctor prescribed with the dilators and Astroglide when I know my husband has a long weekend coming up, then go hop in bed.  Try different positions angles of entry, etc.  At first, I have to admit "it" was a lot worse, gradually it's getting better just want to forget chemo/rad ever happened.

    Pain

    Is the pain due to tightness or burning?  If the latter, has anyone asked about using lidocaine cream?  Makes a big difference when I get my anal exams...

  • Lablover53132
    Lablover53132 Member Posts: 1
    #7
    I think this is fairly

    I think this is fairly common, I was fortunate enough to find a physical therapist that works with pelvic floor rehabilitatio which was a game changer so if that is an option please seek it out, otherwise the creams work well, i use that on the outside and the tablet (vaga-fem) on the inside.  It's all to help keep the tissue pliable.  I also take oral meds to help with sez drive, and have started to engage in a lot more sex now than ever, lube is your friend!   it's been 3 yeara sincet last treatment I would really try and find someone who works with women's health rehabilitation it's very important and they can help you!  Good luck and please do not be discouraged Time does heal a lot of things.  

Discussion Boards