From the Guidelines
A partner undergoing chemotherapy can potentially affect their partner, and using a barrier device such as a condom or dental dam during sexual activity is recommended to reduce the risk of exposure. According to a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology 1, chemotherapy and immunotherapy medications can be found in bodily fluids, including vaginal fluids, semen, and saliva, and using a barrier device can help minimize the risk of transmission.
Key Considerations
- The risk of exposure is higher during active cancer therapy, and partners should take precautions to minimize this risk.
- Chemotherapy patients may experience side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and emotional changes that can impact the relationship dynamic.
- Open communication between partners about needs, limitations, and expectations is essential during this challenging time.
- Good hygiene practices, such as handwashing after handling the patient's bodily fluids, are also advisable.
Reducing Risk of Exposure
- Abstaining from sexual activity for 48-72 hours after chemotherapy is recommended, although this guideline lacks a strong evidence base 1.
- Patients should avoid sex that involves anal or vaginal penetration with body parts or objects when their blood counts are low, due to the increased risk of trauma and infection.
- Using a condom or dental dam can help reduce the risk of exposure to bodily fluids that may contain chemotherapy drugs.
From the Research
Effects of Chemotherapy on Partners
- A partner undergoing chemotherapy can potentially affect their partner in various ways, including emotional and physical aspects 2.
- Chemotherapy can be present in the patient's semen or vaginal fluids, and partners may need to take precautions to avoid exposure 2.
- However, there is no direct evidence in the provided studies that chemotherapy can be transmitted to partners through physical contact or other means.
Safe Sexual Practices During Chemotherapy
- Patients undergoing chemotherapy can engage in safe sexual practices to minimize the risk of transmission or exposure 2.
- This includes using protection, preventing pregnancy, and avoiding partner exposure to chemotherapy in semen or vaginal fluids 2.
- Oncology clinicians can play a crucial role in educating patients about safe sexual practices during cancer treatment 2.
Chemotherapy Administration and Errors
- Chemotherapy errors can occur at any stage of the medication use process, and oral chemotherapy use is a particular area of growing risk 3.
- The administration of chemotherapy can be improved through the use of combination regimen ordering systems, which can reduce errors and improve patient safety 4.
- However, these studies do not directly address the impact of chemotherapy on partners.