Breast Sexual Health Clinic
Our clinic is open to patients who are currently getting breast cancer treatment at Fred Hutch as well as those who have completed treatment with us within the past five years.
Please contact your breast oncology care team to request an appointment with the Breast Sexual Health Clinic. Telehealth (virtual) and in-person appointments are available.
Focusing on Sexual Health During and After Breast Cancer Treatment
The Breast Sexual Health Clinic at Fred Hutch Cancer Center helps individuals with breast cancer address the profound effects that treatment can have on both physical and mental health. For many people, treatment can lead to challenges with sexual health and intimacy, including low libido, pain, vaginal dryness and body image concerns.
As part of our commitment to providing holistic care, the Breast Sexual Health Clinic is designed to support your sexual health needs both during treatment and as you transition to survivorship.
“I’ve had so many patients saying, ‘I just wish I had known about this clinic sooner.’ My goal is to help patients live a more fulfilled life while in treatment and survivorship.”
— Kelly A. Nelson, ARNP, DNP, Breast Oncology and Breast Sexual Health Clinic APP
What is the Breast Sexual Health Clinic?
Fred Hutch’s Breast Sexual Health Clinic was founded to help support a wide range of sexual health needs throughout your cancer treatment and beyond.
The Breast Sexual Health Clinic is located within Fred Hutch’s Breast Oncology Clinic on the South Lake Union campus. One-time and ongoing appointments are available for people currently experiencing symptoms, as well as those who are early in treatment and want to prepare for any challenges that may come in the future.
What can the clinic help me with?
The Breast Sexual Health Clinic can help with both physical and emotional issues that may happen as a result of breast cancer treatment, and specifically the suppression of estrogen. Services include:
- Education and support about your body, vaginal health and intimacy
- Suggestions to enhance communication with your partner
- Addressing dryness with nonhormonal vaginal lubricants or moisturizers
- Prescribing hormone replacement therapy creams, gels or vaginal suppositories when needed
- Treatments to address pain, including vaginal dilator therapy
- Referral to specialists including pelvic floor physical therapists and sex therapists
What can I expect from my appointments?
During your first visit to our clinic, you’ll complete a detailed intake form, including a survey to measure sexual functioning in six different areas: desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and pain. Then, we’ll talk over your responses, discuss any symptoms you’re having and gain an understanding of your sexual history. In some cases, your appointment may include a physical exam.
Appointments are available both in person at Fred Hutch Cancer Center – South Lake Union or virtually via telehealth. You can expect your first appointment to be 60 minutes, and after that, your appointments will last 30 minutes each. We’ll follow up with you every three to four months or more often as needed.