Navigating Loss of Libido After Breast Cancer
Loss of libido is one of the most common — and least talked about — side effects of breast cancer treatment. Sexual interest is not only physical; it’s also emotional and mental. When illness, trauma, and treatment collide, desire can understandably take a back seat. Yet too often, patients are left without guidance or support in this area of survivorship.
Why Does Libido Decline?
Major life events — whether losing a job or facing a cancer diagnosis — can dramatically change how we see ourselves. For people with breast cancer, treatment often brings:
Physical changes: hair loss, breast surgery, scars, pain, or reconstruction discomfort.
Hormonal shifts: endocrine therapy, chemotherapy, and menopause-like effects.
Emotional challenges: anxiety, depression, fear, and grief.
Combined, these factors often reduce interest in sexual intimacy. Studies show that up to 80% of people undergoing cancer treatment experience decreased or lost libido — yet it is rarely addressed in medical settings.
Redefining Intimacy: What It Means to You
Intimacy is more than sex. It may mean holding hands, lying close, or sharing gentle touch. For some, it may involve rediscovering areas of the body that feel good outside of traditional erogenous zones. Taking time to explore what intimacy means to you — and communicating that openly with your partner — can help strengthen connection even during challenging times.
When and How to Talk With Your Partner
Conversations about intimacy can feel vulnerable. Here are some tips:
Choose the right setting. Avoid discussing sex in the bedroom. Instead, try talking during a walk, drive, or dinner out, when the pressure is lower.
Use gentle language. Frame intimacy as a shared journey rather than a problem.
Express curiosity. Talk about what feels good, what doesn’t, and what you’d like to try.
Talking With Your Doctor
Sexual health is a vital part of overall health — but it may not come up unless you bring it up. Consider:
Being specific. Say, “I’ve noticed a loss of libido,” rather than “I don’t feel like myself.”
Asking for referrals. Your oncologist may not be a specialist in sexual health but can connect you with someone who is.
Seeking resources. Gynecologists, sexual health clinics, support groups, and survivorship programs often provide additional help.
Remember: this is a medical issue as much as a relational one. You deserve care, compassion, and options.
Practical Support: Non-Hormonal Options
For those dealing with vaginal dryness or discomfort, non-hormonal moisturizers and lubricants can help. These can be used daily or during intimacy to reduce soreness and make physical closeness more comfortable.
Finding Your Way Back
Recovering intimacy after breast cancer isn’t about returning to “normal.” It’s about redefining closeness on your own terms, honoring your body, and inviting your partner into that process. With communication, patience, and professional support, many people find new ways to connect — physically and emotionally — even after cancer.
A long-time practicing oncologist and professor at the University of Michigan, Jennifer has received several awards for her medical excellence and published over 150 original research articles as well as numerous editorials and book chapters. She is also a speaker and advocate, committed to improving the quality of medical care and reducing the barriers to equity among the disenfranchised.
For more information on how HuMOLYTE can support your gut health during chemotherapy, visit our product page or consult your health care provider.
This blog was reviewed by Dr. Sourabh Kharait.
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan, hydration strategies, or diet. The information provided here is based on general insights and may not apply to individual circumstances.
