Cancer survivors face lasting sexual and relationship challenges, Danish study finds

A new Danish study reveals that many cancer survivors experience long-term sexual difficulties and relationship strain, with physical and emotional after-effects persisting years after treatment. The findings reflect the reality for 44-year-old Katrine Krigslund Gajhede, who was diagnosed with cervical cancer a decade ago, reports DR.

Gajhede, now cancer-free, still grapples with chronic pain, fatigue, and two stoma bags—one for waste and one for urine—following her treatment. “It’s not exactly a recipe for sexual desire,” she said. Her body has undergone significant changes, including weight gain, early menopause from treatment, and internal scarring that has fused tissues together, making intercourse painful and difficult.

“It’s not just about having sex—it takes much longer now,” she explained. “The radiation made my vaginal walls so elastic that they stick together. It’s a huge challenge.” Beyond the physical barriers, Gajhede described struggling with feelings of lost femininity. “Suddenly having these two bags on my stomach—it’s not easy to feel sensual or like a woman when you’re with your partner.”

The emotional toll extends beyond intimacy. Gajhede and her husband, together for over 20 years, have relied on open communication and therapy—both as a couple and individually—to navigate the strain. Their children have also received therapeutic support. “Cancer is a massive trauma for the whole family,” she said. “Even though I was the one with the disease, my entire family was affected.”

While sexual function remains a challenge, Gajhede emphasized that intimacy isn’t solely about intercourse. “There’s so much else that’s been crucial for us—taking time for each other, cuddling, kissing, holding hands. That means everything for our relationship.” She added that self-acceptance and honesty about frustrations have been key: “If you love yourself and each other, the intimate part becomes easier.”

The couple found support through Denmark’s Senfølgerforeningen (Late Effects Association) and online communities, which Gajhede called “incredibly helpful.” She urged others in similar situations to seek help early. “Talk to your doctors, notice changes in your body, and insist on getting support. If I hadn’t had my husband—who constantly reminds me how beautiful I am—I would have broken down under all of this.”

Unlike today, when Danish healthcare providers use materials from the Danish Cancer Society to guide patients on post-treatment sexual health, Gajhede received no such counseling a decade ago. “It would have made the tough conversations about our relationship so much easier,” she reflected.