Navigating Intimacy After Cervical Cancer: Facts, Tips, and Real Talk to Get Your Sexy Back

Cervical cancer is a life-altering diagnosis that affects more than just physical health—it can deeply affect emotional well-being and intimate relationships. From the emotional toll of a serious diagnosis to the physical changes that disrupt intimacy, it can challenge both self-identity and personal connections. Unfortunately, many survivors navigate this journey alone—whether due to discomfort in discussing such a personal matter or simply a lack of information and trusted resources.

During two interactive sessions at Cervivor’s recent Cervical Cancer Summit—one focused on intimacy after cervical cancer and the other on navigating menopause with confidence—participants felt safe enough to openly shared their experiences and concerns in a supportive space. Here is just some of what they said:

“I no longer feel like a woman. I’m disconnected from my sexual self, and I don’t know how to get it back. My recent pelvic exam caused days of bleeding, and I get a UTI with most insertions.”

“No one talks about the sex part of cervical cancer. My doctor just handed me a box of dilators with no explanation on how to use them or how often.”

“I didn’t know about any of this until Cervivor. It still has not been a conversation topic with my medical team unless I talk about it with them.”

These honest reflections highlight the need for open conversations and greater awareness—including, in some cases, among medical professionals. Whether you’re undergoing treatment or navigating recovery, understanding the facts and exploring new ways to connect can empower you to rediscover what feels good for you and regain confidence in your intimate life. It can also help you navigate intimacy with a current or future partner. Acknowledging the impact of cervical cancer on intimacy and relationships—and seeking out support and strategies for maintaining connection—can strengthen bonds and enhance overall well-being.

How Cervical Cancer Impacts Intimacy

Surviving cervical cancer is a triumph, but it often comes with a host of lasting physical and emotional challenges. For many survivors, it’s a case of “I survived, but no one prepared me for this.” These challenges can profoundly affect intimacy, touching both the body and the mind in ways that can feel overwhelming and isolating.

While the emotional and physical tolls of cervical cancer are unique to each person, they often manifest in two key areas: the physical changes resulting from treatment, and the emotional shifts that affect a person’s sense of self and connection to others.

Cervical Cancer Survivor and Cervivor Community Member Amanda Hunter

Physical Impact
Treatments for cervical cancer can lead to a variety of challenges that make physical intimacy difficult. These include vaginal dryness, pelvic pain, and changes in sexual sensation—issues that can significantly affect a person’s ability to engage in or enjoy sexual activities. This is expressed powerfully by Cervivor community member Amanda Hunter: “I have changed after my cancer diagnosis and treatment, and I don’t know how to fix it. The main thing I regret is having my hysterectomy. I no longer feel like a woman because of it, and I am angry. I had just found the love of my life and married him—I absolutely adore my new husband. There was a time I couldn’t keep my hands off of him. But now, between the physical changes from the hysterectomy that have completely altered the feeling of sex, to the loss of hormones from radiation killing my ovaries and the menopausal symptoms that come with it, I am spending our second wedding anniversary feeling guilty because I never want to have sex anymore.”

Emotional Impact
The diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer can also take a significant emotional toll. The stress of facing cancer and undergoing treatment can trigger anxiety, depression, and concerns about body image. These emotional shifts can affect sexual desire and impact overall intimacy and connection with one’s partner.

Cervivor Ambassador Ana Reyes shares her physical scars from treatment.

Sage Bolte, PhD, LCSW, CST, FAOSW, Chief Philanthropy Officer and President of the Inova Health Foundation, and a 22-year oncology social work professional, was the keynote speaker at the Summit session on intimacy. She shared, “Getting here required, and I know many of you experienced, much loss and grief. There needs to be space to honor that. This doesn’t mean dwelling in sadness, but if we don’t acknowledge what’s lost, we can’t celebrate what’s gained or learned, nor can we learn something different.”

Research confirms what many survivors have shared. Studies indicate that up to 50-70% of women who undergo treatment for cervical cancer experience changes in their sexual function. These changes can include reduced libido, discomfort during sex, or altered sexual satisfaction. Addressing these challenges is essential for maintaining healthy relationships and overall well-being during and after treatment. But, regardless of relationship status, navigating intimacy can be a unique journey for each woman.

Sage offers hope: “You may think, ‘I’ve completely lost interest in sex. My libido is totally gone.’ But libido starts in the mind. Wanting to want to means you still have libido and interest. Give it time and space. The beauty is that you’re going to get to know your body all over again. And figuring out what feels good is very important, whether you have a partner or not.”

Redefining Intimacy

Intimacy is often misunderstood as being solely synonymous with sexual activity, but in reality, it encompasses a broad spectrum of connections that can deepen and enrich relationships. This allows couples to explore and express their bond in various ways, creating a stronger and more resilient connection. The following aspects highlight the diverse landscape of intimacy:

Emotional Closeness: Sharing thoughts, fears, and hopes builds a deep emotional bond. This deep emotional bond is nurtured when partners feel comfortable opening up to each other, creating a safe space for vulnerability and trust. Sharing personal feelings, desires, and anxieties can bring partners closer together, fostering a sense of mutual understanding and support. It can be cultivated through regular, meaningful conversations, active listening, and empathy, ultimately strengthening the relationship.

Physical Touch: Sage emphasizes that the mind is the most important organ in sparking intimacy, while the skin is the largest one. Simple gestures like holding hands, cuddling, or offering gentle massages can foster closeness and provide comfort without the pressures of traditional sexual activity. These acts of physical affection help release oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” which promotes feelings of bonding and attachment. Physical touch, particularly during stressful times like cancer treatment and recovery, can be a powerful way to express love and care.

Shared Experiences: Shared experiences play a vital role in intimacy, as they provide opportunities for couples to spend quality time together. This can be achieved through various activities, such as engaging in conversation, sharing hobbies, or simply enjoying quiet moments together. These shared experiences can help both partners feel connected, creating a sense of togetherness and unity. Whether it’s cooking a meal, watching a movie, going for a walk, or practicing a hobby, the time spent together can strengthen the bond between partners, fostering a deeper sense of intimacy and connection.

5 Tips for Nurturing Intimacy

Many community members have shared their experiences with receiving a bag or box of dilators after brachytherapy (internal radiation) without a clear explanation of their importance for maintaining pelvic floor health and keeping the vaginal canal open post-treatment. Unfortunately, some have not been as fortunate and have experienced their vaginal canals fusing together. On the other hand, many have received the necessary education, engaged in open dialogue with their care team, and are achieving tremendous success in their post-treatment phase. Cervical cancer survivor Samantha wholeheartedly recommends dilating and shares in her Cervivor Story: “Your sex life does not have to be over after this! In some cases, it’s physically impossible, and I understand that. But for the vast majority of us, with consistent dilation, pelvic floor therapy, and lube, we can repair vaginal tissues and have a sex life again.”

It’s essential to remember that you matter and should never hesitate to advocate for yourself. The following tips can help you navigate the challenges of intimacy after cervical cancer treatment:

  • Open Communication: Discuss your feelings, needs, and concerns with your partner. Honest dialogue can help both of you navigate the physical and emotional challenges together.
  • Explore Alternative Forms of Connection: If traditional sexual activity is uncomfortable, consider non-sexual forms of intimacy like cuddling, massage, or simply spending quality time together. Redefining what intimacy means for you can pave the way for a deeper connection.
  • Seek Professional Support: Professional counselors, therapists, or sexologists with experience in cancer care can offer strategies tailored to your situation, including interventions like pelvic floor therapy or sexual counseling to address specific concerns.
  • Prioritize Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote overall well-being. Exercise, mindfulness practices, and self-compassion can improve your mood and self-esteem, making it easier to embrace intimacy.
  • Educate Yourselves: Understanding the potential side effects of treatments can help set realistic expectations. Trusted sources like the National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society provide comprehensive information on managing these challenges.

Products and Resources for Sexual Health

The following products and resources can help patients and survivors manage sexual health challenges:

Pictured: Soul Source Silicone Vaginal Dilators

  • Dilators: Are used to moisturize, stretch and strengthen for overall vaginal health. Products like Soul Source or Intimate Rose are popular due to the silicone material. Typically recommended use of 3-5 times a week at 5-20 minutes.
  • Depth Control Devices: Like Ohnut to help you control depth and alleviate pain.
  • Lubricants: Water-based artificial lubrication (paraben and glycerin-free) like Sliquid, Slippery Stuff, and as an alternative, coconut oil.
  • Vaginal Moisturizers: Like Replens, Good Clean Love, and Aloe Cadabra to provide relief for vaginal dryness and discomfort.
  • Pelvic Floor Therapist Referral: A specialist for retraining and strengthening pelvic floor muscles. Additionally, Cervu Health offers pelvic therapy solutions for female cancer survivors. If you experience chronic pelvic pain or discomfort during sexual activity (dyspareunia), consider participating in their research study to help develop a treatment device for women facing similar challenges.

It’s essential to understand the difference between moisturizers and lubricants, as well as the importance of maintaining the vagina’s natural pH balance. Hormonal changes, radiation, and chemotherapy can affect the vagina’s pH balance, making it crucial to choose products that are gentle and suitable for your needs.

Last Thoughts

Cervical cancer treatment can significantly impact a woman’s sexual health and intimacy. However, remember that these aspects are vital parts of your overall well-being. Or, as Sage wisely says: “Think about what sexual intimacy is really about with another person. Orgasms are a great thing to experience, but that isn’t the goal.” With the right support and resources, you can navigate these challenges and build a stronger, more meaningful relationship with yourself and your partner. Research shows that interventions like pelvic floor rehabilitation and targeted therapy can improve sexual function and quality of life for cervical cancer survivors. Open communication with your care team and partner is essential in strengthening your connection and enhancing your life.

By advocating for yourself, exploring new forms of connection, and seeking support from communities like Cervivor, you can redefine intimacy in a way that honors both your physical and emotional needs.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. It is essential to always consult your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or questions about your treatment or health. While we strive to provide accurate and helpful information, personal medical decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

The 2025 Cervical Cancer Summit Was Unforgettable – Here’s Why

During January’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM), the 5th annual Cervical Cancer Summit powered by Cervivor, Inc. brought together patients, survivors, advocates, researchers, and healthcare professionals to share knowledge, build community, and inspire action toward ending cervical cancer. Held in Washington, D.C. – where Cervivor was founded 20 years ago – it marked a monumental milestone in the organization’s efforts to ensure no one faces this preventable disease alone or at all.

The 2025 Cervical Cancer Summit drew patients and survivors from around the world, joined here by other advocates, experts, and supporters.

Reflecting on a Transformative Weekend

From January 23 to 26, 2025, the JW Marriott and The National Press Club buzzed with energy as attendees participated in impactful discussions and engaging activities. The weekend kicked off with a Thursday afternoon scavenger hunt to iconic D.C. landmarks and wrapped up with a Sunday morning self-care session for attendees. Friday and Saturday featured nearly 40 speakers and drew over 150 participants, including about 40 virtual attendees. All gathered to explore the latest advancements in cervical cancer advocacy, prevention, and treatment.

Looking back at another successful Summit, it’s clear that we are stronger together, and now is the time to deepen our collective commitment to making every cervix matter. (Cervivor even commemorated this new mantra, “Every Cervix Matters,” with new merchandise for CCAM.) As Cervivor’s Founder and Chief Visionary, Tamika Felder, encouraged the crowd in her welcome address, “Despite everything going on in the world, there is hope. I know it because of the work that all of you are doing, and we know that work will not be stopped.”

From start to finish, the Summit fostered powerful connections and inspired personal transformation. On the left, Cervivor’s DEI Chief, Kimberly Williams, welcomes attendees, while participants relax during a self-care-focused Sunday service including yoga and mindfulness.

7 Highlights from the 5th Annual Summit

Since its inaugural virtual gathering in 2020 during the pandemic, the Summit has become the most well-attended annual event for cervical cancer patients and survivors. It’s the place to discover groundbreaking solutions and identify missed opportunities, so key stakeholders – especially those in Cervivor’s global community of those impacted by cervical cancer – can collaborate to drive meaningful change. Some of the powerful highlights included:

1. Inspiring Keynotes

At left, Cervivor Chief Visionary and Founder Tamika Felder gave her annual State of Cervical Cancer address, mapping out a vision for a cervical cancer-free future. On Saturday, keynote speaker and cervical cancer survivor Trish Toro (right) inspired the crowd with her triumph over adversity.

From Cervivor Chief Visionary and Founder Tamika Felder’s essential State of Cervical Cancer remarks on Friday morning to the inspiring story of endurance athlete and cervical cancer survivor Trish Toro, our keynote speakers highlighted the strength and resilience of the cervical cancer community.

In her speech, Tamika expressed solidarity with attendees: “I know firsthand what it feels like to lack support, visibility, and community. That’s why I created this organization,” she explained. “Looking at where we are now, it’s undeniable – the power of this community and the importance of raising our collective voices for change cannot be ignored.”  She also noted how uplifting it was to see so many in teal and white but reminded the audience, “Don’t be dismayed if not everyone knows our ribbon colors or that January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. More and more people are understanding that this is our month to shine.”

Trish, Saturday’s keynote speaker, shared the irony of her diagnosis – she was training for an Ironman competition when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer. “I was in the best shape of my life. I could swim a mile. I could run 31 miles,” she said. “But cervical cancer doesn’t discriminate. I decided to approach cancer like I would a marathon – because I can do hard things.” With that mindset, she chose to walk to and from her cancer treatment center, always accompanied by a supportive friend or family member, she tearfully recounted.

2. Powerful Panels

Two of the impactful panel discussions included “Equity in Action” about addressing healthcare disparities and the “Power of Storytelling” with three cervical cancer survivors turned advocates.

Multiple panels highlighted the critical work being done to address disparities in care and amplify patient voices, which Cervivor believes are the real experts needed to shape research, clinical trials, and public health initiatives.

The “Power of Storytelling” panel with Cervivor’s Chief Diversity Equity and Inclusion Officer Kimberly Williams, MHCM, and cervical cancer survivors and advocates Aisha McClellan and Arlene Simpson, demonstrated how they’ve transformed their personal narratives into powerful teachable moments for their close friends, families, and broader communities.

“Be patient with yourself,” encouraged Arlene, who was initially hesitant to talk about her cervical cancer diagnosis due to stigma in her community. “Let yourself heal from the journey. If you’re not ready to tell your story yet, don’t tell it. But know that your story is important. There’s someone out there who’s going to take it to heart, and it’s going to spread.”

Attendees were fully engaged during the “Equity in Action” session, featuring experts on cancer care gaps such as Dr. Susan Vadaparampil, Senior Member and Professor at Moffitt Cancer Center; Dr. Lynn Richards McDonald, Clinical Program Director for cervical cancer screening at Johns Hopkins Hospital; and Dr. Isabell Scarinci, Clinical Psychologist at the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center. While sharing a personal story from her childhood in Brazil, where she had polio, Dr. Scarinci expressed her vision for a world where cervical cancer is as rare as polio – another vaccine-preventable disease: “I dedicate my work to cancer elimination because I’ve seen the end of one disease,” she said. “I want to see the end of another.”

3. Interactive Sessions

In sessions on navigating financial toxicity due to overwhelming medical bills, becoming shame-resistant, and other key topics, attendees were encouraged to ask questions and share their perspectives.

To empower participants with practical tools and resources, four panels addressed highly relevant topics:

  • Trauma-Informed Care and Building Shame Resilience with Dr. Stephanie Broussard, Director of Social Work at Thyme Care and Vice President of Policy for Adjuvant Behavioral Health
  • Managing Medical Debt with Cervivor’s Community Engagement Liaison, Morgan Newman, MSW; Nurse Navigator, Glenda Cousar, RN, BSN, OCN; and Cancer Support Community’s Vice President of Policy and Advocacy, Daneen Sekoni
  • Navigating Clinical Trials with Tiffany Drummond of Opinionated STEM and cervical cancer survivor and patient advocate Linda Ryan.

4. Cervivor Awards

From left, the Cervivor Champion Award winners included Pamela Akers, RN, Cindy Craddock, and St. Jude’s Julia Brown, MPH, and Andrea Stubbs, MPA, and Glenda Cossar, RN, BSN, OCN.

Cervivor proudly honored outstanding individuals and organizations making significant contributions to the mission to end cervical cancer. Pamela Akers, RN, Cindy Craddock, The St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program Team, Virginia “Ginny” Marable, and Glenda Cousar, RN, BSN, OCN all received our coveted Cervivor Champion Award for their exceptional dedication and impactful work.

From left, more Cervivor Champion Award winners included Glenda Cossar, RN, BSN, OCN, and Ginny Marable.

Ginny moderated a session on the “Pathway to Parenthood” with cervical cancer survivors Dulcely Tavarez and Anna Ogo, who have all faced fertility challenges due to their cervical cancer treatments. The session concluded with the first presentation of the Virginia “Ginny” Marable Cervivor Baby Gift Fund to Dulcely, an emotional moment for Ginny, Dulcely, and Tamika who joined them on stage. Generous donations to the fund included over $2,500 in financial contributions, as well as baby essentials from Dr. Brown’s, and gift cards from Target, Starbucks, and more.

Tamika Felder and Ginny Marable presented the first-ever Cervivor Baby Gift Fund to Dulcely Tavarez.

5. Meaningful Connections

Throughout the weekend, attendees explored informational booths and participated in engaging activities, including the KickIt Pajamas Party Powered by Cervivor, Inc. on Thursday evening. Tracy Weiss, a cervical cancer survivor and Executive Director of Chick Mission, spoke to the group, setting a warm, vibrant tone for the weekend.

On Thursday night, attendees donned pajamas for a fun get-to-know-you event, while cervical cancer survivor Tracy Weiss from Chick Mission inspired the group.

6. Collaboration

Another central theme of the Summit was collaboration, focusing on innovative strategies to ensure that everyone – regardless of background or location – has access to life-saving screenings, treatments, and HPV vaccinations. Sessions included:

  • “Expanding Access and Reducing Barriers through HPV Self-Collection” and “What’s the Latest in HPV Vaccination?” – moderated by Dr. Linda Eckert, author of Enough: Because We Can Stop Cervical Cancer – sparked valuable discussions on overcoming barriers to care and promoting health equity.
  • During the HPV self-collection session with Dr. Carolyn Kay and Vanessa Bennett, attendees were encouraged to open and handle the tests provided by Roche Diagnostics, exploring the impact of self-collection on increasing screening access.
  • Participants also gained historical context on cervical screenings through a reading by Dr. Wendy Kline, author of Exposed: The Hidden History of the Pelvic Exam
  • A talk on the evolution of cervical cancer screenings from Dr. Kyle Bukowski, Medical Director at Hologic emphasized the groundbreaking impact of the Pap test when it was first introduced in the 1950s.

Teamwork makes the dream work! The experts on stage participating in a session on the latest in HPV vaccination included: Dr. Linda Eckert, Deanna Kepka, PhD, MPH, (Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI)), Andrea Stubbs (St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program), and Zuli Garcia (Cervical Cancer Survivor).

7. Tools for Self-Care

On Sunday, the remaining attendees enjoyed a serene closing session featuring art therapy – resulting in a one-of-a-kind Cervivor quilt by Sandi Goldman – plus meditation, mindfulness, motivation, and more. The sessions were led by self-care experts Lisa Simms Booth of The Smith Center for the Healing and the Arts; clinical psychologist David Zuniga, PhD, MDIV, MA; and Tara Casagrande of Yoga + Mindfulness.

On the final day of the Summit, participants gathered in The Congressional Room for healing and reflection, including guided sessions by Lisa Simms Booth (left) and Tara Casagrande, and Dr. David Zuniga (right).

Our Heartfelt Thanks

To everyone who joined us in D.C. or followed the Summit online, we offer our sincere gratitude. A special thank you to our presenting sponsors Hologic, Roche, Pfizer, Genmab, and our supporting sponsor, BD, and of course, our volunteers who made this event possible, too.

We left this Summit inspired and ready to carry the lessons learned into our communities. Let’s continue to educate, empower, and advocate. Let’s keep sharing stories, sparking conversations, and working toward solutions. Let’s keep working together. 

Together, we are Cervivor Strong. Together, we will eliminate cervical cancer.

Mark Your Calendars!

Join us again in January 2026 for the next Cervical Cancer Summit. Be among the first to receive updates and secure your spot by signing up here. (If you attended this year, don’t forget to share your favorite Summit moments on social media by tagging us and utilizing the following hashtags: #Cervivor, #EndCervicalCancer, and #CervicalCancerSummit). Keep an eye out for upcoming webinars and other Cervivor community events. Your voice and your participation are critical to the mission of ending cervical cancer.