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Safe to use testosterone for sex drive?

Page last modified on: October 6, 2008
Question from Curious: I've read about a testosterone cream that can be used to increase sex drive. Can you tell me about it? Is it safe for people with hormone receptor-positive cancer?
Answer —Kara Nakisbendi, M.D.: That's an excellent question! The truth is we don't know 100%. But if you have a gynecologist and oncologist who work together, many doctors will be okay with you using a testosterone ointment. The creams work well, but they do tend to get absorbed more easily. The testosterone ointments can be used locally on the vulva and can help with sexual response - lubrication, engorgement, and sensation. And if you're concerned about absorption, blood tests can be done to check for testosterone levels.

On Wednesday, February 20, 2008, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Sex, Intimacy, and Breast Cancer. Leslie R. Schover, Ph.D. and Kara Nakisbendi, M.D. answered your questions about sexual side effects of breast cancer and breast cancer treatment, and what you can do about them.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Leslie R. Schover, Ph.D.Leslie R. Schover, Ph.D. is a renowned psychologist with a special interest in helping people resolve or manage their sexual problems, especially those problems connected with a chronic illness such as cancer.

Kara Nakisbendi, M.D. is a Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist, a Board Certified Nutrition Specialist and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

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