I was thrilled to recently learn about the existence of the Sexuality Intimacy and Menopause Clinic at Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale-New Haven. This unique center helps female cancer patients and survivors address the effects that cancer treatment can have on their bodies and sexualities. The clinic is run by a team of doctors and psychologists, and focuses on an interdisciplinary approach to sexual health. Psychological counseling, herbs, acupuncture, exercise, and prescription medication are all assembled into customized treatment plans based on the patient’s particular needs or concerns.

Sex isn’t necessarily the first thing that comes to mind when you think of cancer treatment, but that is precisely why the Sexuality Intimacy and Menopause Clinic is so important. Medical treatment of any kind can wreak havoc on the body, and can profoundly affect patients’ abilities to enjoy, or even participate in, sexual activity. When dealing with a life-threatening disease like cancer, it can be easy to throw sexuality by the wayside. Patients may be overwhelmed by their illness, embarrassed to bring up sex in the face of the seriousness of their diagnosis, or operating under the belief that they should be happy just to be alive. One of the founders of the center, Dr. Elena Ratner, reported a tale of a patient who was being treated for cervical cancer. The woman was getting divorced for the second time, and eventually revealed that she had not had sexual intercourse in eight years. The patient said, “I thought that this is how things are after this kind of surgery.” With the resources available at the center, Dr. Ratner was able to address the physical pain the patient experienced during sex and set her up with psychological counseling. The existence of a center like this supports my firmly-held belief that sexuality should always be seen as a vital part of our lives. Even regardless of the state of our health.

Is your physical health impacting your sexuality? Call (415) 658-5738 or visit my Appointments page to schedule a consultation.