Relationships and Sexual Health

Navigating Relationships

You and Your Partner

Breast cancer can affect not just you but your relationships too. This can include how you and your partner communicate, cope and support one another.

Communication
Breast cancer can put stress on your relationship. You and your partner might both feel scared, uncertain, or unsure how to talk about what is happening. Staying open with each other can help you feel more connected and supported.

You do not need the perfect words. Simply saying, “I’m feeling overwhelmed,” can help your partner understand what you are going through. Be honest about what you need and ask what they need too.

Everyone copes differently. One of you may want to talk a lot, while the other might stay quiet or focus on practical tasks. Neither is wrong. What matters is talking about your differences so you can avoid misunderstandings and support each other better.

Studies show that couples who communicate openly during cancer treatment often feel more emotionally supported and closer as a result. You do not have to face this alone. Working as a team can really help.

New Responsibilities
Breast cancer can change your daily routine. You might have more appointments, need time to rest, or feel too tired for your usual tasks. If you normally care for kids, older family members, or manage household chores, your partner may need to step in more often.

Including your partner in appointments, when possible, can help them better understand your care and how to support you. These changes can be a big adjustment for both of you, so it helps to talk about how you are coping and what support each of you need.

People respond to stress in different ways. Some step in right away; others might feel overwhelmed or pull back. If things feel off, try to talk openly, or consider outside support.

Support
Breast cancer affects both you and the person supporting you. Your partner may feel uncertain, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained. Encourage open conversations and remind each other that it is okay to ask for help. Friends, family, and support services can make a real difference.

Good communication goes a long way. Your partner might not always know what to do or say and their actions might sometimes feel unhelpful. Try to be honest about what you need and invite them to do the same. Staying open can help you feel more connected and avoid misunderstandings.

If your partner seems distant or less supportive than you need, and talking has not helped, you might consider seeing a counsellor together or individually. Relationship stress can feel especially heavy during a health crisis, but help is available.

There are also support resources made just for partners. Online communities like the Young Survival Coalition’s Co-Survivor Community and the Canadian Cancer Society’s CancerConnection.ca offer helpful spaces for people caring for someone with cancer.

Single and Navigating Breast Cancer

Being single while going through breast cancer treatment can bring its own challenges. You might feel like you must handle everything on your own or wonder when the right time is to start dating or talk about your diagnosis. These thoughts are completely normal.

Even without a partner, you can lean on other people in your life. Your friends, family, or others who’ve been through cancer can be there for support. You can also connect with others in support groups or online communities who understand what you are going through.

If and when you decide to date is up to you. Some people find it helps to meet new people during treatment, while others wait until they feel more ready. Talking about your diagnosis is a personal decision. Share when it feels right for you. The right person will respect your experience and see you as more than your diagnosis.

The Canadian Cancer Society has a database that can be used to find local support services in your area. You can access it below:

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