Sex during chemo

[john1]

I think I've read somewhere that it's important to wear a condom if you're going to have sex while on chemo. But my doctor acted like the chances of it being a problem if I didn't use one are pretty low and that I didn't really have to. My girlfriend is on the pill but I think it would probably be a good idea to use a condom anyways. I'm just curious what other people have experienced. Thanks.

[TimsWife]

My husband's medical oncologist told us the same thing. He said to use a condom for 6 months after. Is that even lobg enough?

[Scott]

This same question came up on TC-NET today and was answered, "You should not have unprotected sex for at least 1-2 months after the end of chemo, as the fluid transfer can expose you to (weakly) therapeutic levels of chemotherapy. The oncologists recommend 6-12 months to be safe and to avoid getting expectations up too high, as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can lead to temporary infertility."

[dadmo]

John:
The chemo drugs make your semen is toxic. Use protection.

[Apache]

Agreed. Semen levels are slightly toxic and the chances of damaged sperm and a possibly defective embryo are unbelievable high. Use a condom and my oncologist said no tries for conception until 1 year after. I've heard six months after chemo Rx is probably ok but I got conservative advice.