TRUTH: This is a fairy tale. Relationships are like tides; sometimes they’re up and sometimes they’re down. Adjustments can be made to keep the joy of sex alive, but sex alone doesn’t make a relationship secure.

TRUTH: Regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity, giving and receiving pleasure can be expressed in many ways-hugging, kissing, cuddling, holding hands, masturbation, oral sex, stimulation with the hands, and even sleeping in the same bed.

TRUTH: Unless your partner has extrasensory perception (ESP), they can’t read your mind. Tell your partner what you like, what you don’t like.

TRUTH: People with stomas can and do get pregnant and have healthy babies. It is important, however, to be followed by healthcare professionals throughout the pregnancy.

TRUTH: It’s reasonable to feel this way. People who’ve lost a breast to cancer or lost a limb feel this way too. Your attitude and how you treat yourself sets the tone on how others treat you. If you feel comfortable and accepting of your new body, your partner is likely to do the same.

TRUTH: If there’s no erection the first time you try after surgery, don’t convince yourself this is the way it’s going to be. Rest. Relax. Regain your strength and try again. If the problem persists, talk to your doctor.

TRUTH: It is possible to have an orgasm without ejaculating (a dry orgasm).

TRUTH: Cancer isn’t spread through sexual contact. However, ‘safe sex’ should be used to prevent sexually transmitted infections.

TRUTH: Deodorizers especially designed for use with an ostomy are available to help reduce odors from stool and urine. Some are used in the pouch and some are taken by mouth. Modern pouches are made of odor free materials. To remain fresh, keep your body and pouching system clean.

TRUTH: Close body contact and movement during sex won’t hurt your stoma. However, nothing (fingers, objects) should be put into the stoma. A stoma is not a sexual organ.

TRUTH: Ha! Many seniors, including ones with an ostomy, are sexually active.