Rediscover Your Sexy Side on Aromatase Inhibitors

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Emotional Effects of Breast Cancer
3. The Impact of Aromatase Inhibitors on Sexual Health
4. Restoring Sexual Health: Tips and Strategies
   1. Addressing Vaginal Dryness
   2. Reducing Stress
   3. Communicating with Your Partner
5. Seeking Professional Help
6. Conclusion
7. FAQs

Rediscovering Your Sexy Side While Taking Aromatase Inhibitors

Breast cancer is a life-changing experience that can have a profound impact on a woman's emotional and physical well-being. For many women, the Journey to recovery involves undergoing anti-estrogen therapy, which can be challenging in its own right. One of the most significant side effects of anti-estrogen therapy is a decrease in libido, with studies suggesting that women taking aromatase inhibitors are 50% more likely to develop sexual problems than those not taking these drugs.

If You're struggling to find that spark, realize that you're certainly not alone. The good news is that there are steps you can take to restore your sexual health and rediscover your sexy side. In this article, we'll explore the emotional effects of breast cancer, the impact of aromatase inhibitors on sexual health, and tips and strategies for restoring sexual health.

The Emotional Effects of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a traumatic experience that can leave women feeling vulnerable, anxious, and depressed. The emotional effects of breast cancer can be just as challenging as the physical effects, and it's essential to address both equally. If you're struggling with emotional issues related to breast cancer, it's important to Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional.

The Impact of Aromatase Inhibitors on Sexual Health

Aromatase inhibitors are a Type of anti-estrogen therapy that works by blocking the production of estrogen in the body. While these drugs are effective at reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence, they can also have a significant impact on sexual health. One of the most common side effects of aromatase inhibitors is vaginal dryness, which can make sex painful and uncomfortable.

Restoring Sexual Health: Tips and Strategies

Restoring sexual health after breast cancer and anti-estrogen therapy can be a challenge, but it's not impossible. Here are some tips and strategies to help you get your spark back:

Addressing Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is a common side effect of aromatase inhibitors, but there are steps you can take to alleviate discomfort. Using a vaginal moisturizer like Replens can help lubricate and alleviate discomfort due to vaginal dryness. If you need a quick fix, then a vaginal lubricant can help, but be sure to ask your doctor ahead of time to avoid further irritating your vagina. If you still find pain during intercourse, ask your doctor about vaginal lidocaine, which can help reduce pain.

Reducing Stress

Stress is the ultimate mood killer, regardless of your physical well-being. If you're stressed out, then magic in the bedroom can be elusive. Reducing your stress comes down to things like exercise, meditation, perspective, and spending time doing things you enjoy. It may not seem connected, but relaxation outside the bedroom can carry into your time between the sheets.

Communicating with Your Partner

After your period of self-discovery and stress reduction, it's time to update your partner on what feels good. Your body has been through a lot, and your partner may not know how your sexuality has changed during your breast cancer journey. Letting a partner know what you like takes the pressure off of you both. This is a time for discovery, taking things slow, and being patient with each other. Many women have had success by downplaying sex and instead focusing on touch, kissing, and foreplay rather than intercourse. Taking away the pressure to orgasm can actually help it happen sooner than later. Letting your partner know what feels good is a great way to include them in the healing process.

Seeking Professional Help

If you're struggling to connect with your sexuality, we suggest bringing up any symptoms with your doctor. They may recommend drugs to help you acclimate your post-cancer body. Aromatase inhibitors bring all types of physical and emotional changes, and if your sex life is struggling beneath the weight of your cancer journey, always remember you're not alone.

Conclusion

Breast cancer and anti-estrogen therapy can have a significant impact on sexual health, but there are steps you can take to restore your sexual health and rediscover your sexy side. By addressing vaginal dryness, reducing stress, and communicating with your partner, you can take control of your sexual health and enjoy a fulfilling sex life.

FAQs

Q: What are aromatase inhibitors? A: Aromatase inhibitors are a type of anti-estrogen therapy that works by blocking the production of estrogen in the body. They are commonly used to reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence.

Q: What are the side effects of aromatase inhibitors? A: Aromatase inhibitors can have a significant impact on sexual health, with vaginal dryness being one of the most common side effects. Other side effects may include joint pain, hot flashes, and fatigue.

Q: How can I alleviate vaginal dryness? A: Using a vaginal moisturizer like Replens can help lubricate and alleviate discomfort due to vaginal dryness. If you need a quick fix, then a vaginal lubricant can help, but be sure to ask your doctor ahead of time to avoid further irritating your vagina. If you still find pain during intercourse, ask your doctor about vaginal lidocaine, which can help reduce pain.

Q: How can I reduce stress? A: Reducing stress comes down to things like exercise, meditation, perspective, and spending time doing things you enjoy. It may not seem connected, but relaxation outside the bedroom can carry into your time between the sheets.

Q: What should I do if I'm struggling to connect with my sexuality? A: If you're struggling to connect with your sexuality, we suggest bringing up any symptoms with your doctor. They may recommend drugs to help you acclimate your post-cancer body. Professional help can also get you both on the same page.