- Cancer Information
- LGBTQIA+
LGBTQIA+
Like anyone when diagnosed with cancer you will have many questions.
Introduction
The links below includes some useful information on these key areas;
- cancer screening
- cancer risk and gender-affirming treatment
- symptoms of cancer
- cancer treatment.
There may be times when members of your healthcare team may ask you about aspects of your sexuality such as;
- sexual and romantic orientation
- sexual activity
- gender identity.
These questions are asked in order to be able to give the right care and support to you and the people close to you. If you are unsure why you are been asked it is ok to ask them the reason. In sharing this information, it will hopefully make things easier and less stressful for you and your loved ones.
You may see some NHS staff wearing an NHS Rainbow Badge. The badge means that they are open to talking about LGBTQ + needs and able to offer support, or they identify as such or they support the LGBTQ+ community.
It may also help your healthcare team to know the following things:
- Whether you are out or not.
- Your name, title and pronouns.
- The people who are important to you.
- What is important to you.
- What you are worried about.
Some LGBTQ+ people may worry about being treated less well. This may be because they have had difficult or negative experiences before.
By law, your healthcare team must not treat you less favourably because of your sexual orientation or sex or gender reassignment. This is called discrimination and is against the law
If you are concerned, please speak to your healthcare team so they can help and ensure you are getting the support you need.
Cancer, sex and fertility
Cancer and some cancer treatments can affect many areas of sexual well-being. There is a helpful section on this website regarding this subject. Your cancer doctor or specialist nurse can explain before you start a cancer treatment if it is likely to cause sexual side effects or fertility problems. They can also give advice and information about this during or after treatment.
You may have some specific questions about how these will affect your sex life or your fertility options. And some side effects may be more of a problem depending on the type of sex you have. Chat with your teams about all these worries so you are aware of your options and care needed.
Helpful information links and support
Sex with and beyond cancer
Cancer, sex
Cancer and fertility
If you have questions about your fertility and cannot find the information you need, call our Macmillan cancer support specialists on 0808 808 00 00.
LGBTQ+ cancer support groups
Support groups are a way of meeting people in similar situations and sharing experiences. Many people find they help them cope with cancer and cancer treatment. Each group is unique.
Ask your healthcare team about groups in your area, or look under the support group section on this website. Alternatively call Macmillan on 0808 808 00 00. You can also search our database for groups in your area or cancercaremap.org
LGBTQ+ cancer support groups include the following:
Online groups
You can visit the LGBTIQ+ group or explore all the cancer support forums.
LGBTQ wider support
LGBTQIA+ forum
Join our LGBTQIA+ forum to share experiences and chat anonymously to others affected by cancer. Our community is available 24/7. It is a safe space where you can share experiences, ask questions and talk to people who understand.