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A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Gorham, ME
March 4
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

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Managing Intimacy & Energy During Multiple Myeloma 💛

Living with Multiple Myeloma and its treatments can affect energy, hormones, and physical comfort — which may change intimacy or sexual health.

1️⃣ Is it normal for desire or performance to change during treatment?Yes. Fatigue, stress, medications, and hormonal changes can all affect libido and response. Fluctuations are normal.

2️⃣ Can treatments cause erectile difficulties or vaginal dryness?Yes. Chemotherapy, steroids, and other medications may influence hormone levels and physical response.

3️⃣ Will sexual function return after treatment?For many people, improvement occurs as the body recovers. Recovery speed varies depending on overall health and treatment type.

4️⃣ Is it safe to be intimate with fragile bones?Gentle positioning and avoiding pressure on painful areas is important. Consult a doctor if there are fractures or high fracture risk.

5️⃣ Should I discuss sexual health with my doctor?Absolutely. Sexual health is part of overall wellbeing. Doctors are trained to address these concerns confidentially.

6️⃣ What if my partner and I feel disconnected?Open communication helps. Emotional intimacy, reassurance, and patience are often more important than physical performance.

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March 4
MyMyelomaTeam

How does multiple myeloma affect sexual performance?

Multiple myeloma can impact sexual performance in several ways, primarily through fatigue and anemia. When myeloma causes low red blood cell counts, it can lead to changes in sex drive along with other symptoms like lack of energy, dizziness, and trouble breathing.

The Show Full Answer

How does multiple myeloma affect sexual performance?

Multiple myeloma can impact sexual performance in several ways, primarily through fatigue and anemia. When myeloma causes low red blood cell counts, it can lead to changes in sex drive along with other symptoms like lack of energy, dizziness, and trouble breathing.

The extreme exhaustion from myeloma is different from regular tiredness—it's a profound fatigue that doesn't improve with rest. This type of exhaustion can significantly affect your interest in and energy for sexual activity.

Additionally, the emotional toll of living with myeloma, including depression and anxiety, can also impact intimacy and sexual desire. Pain from the condition itself or treatments may make physical intimacy uncomfortable.

If you're experiencing changes in your sex drive or performance, it's worth discussing with your healthcare team. They can check for anemia and other treatable factors that might be contributing to these changes.

March 4
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Along with age, other chronic conditions and other things that could effect your sex drive. It is important to keep a positive attitude and a positive relationship with your partner to minimize the effects.

March 4

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