Embracing Intimacy: Navigating the Conversation about Sexuality & Cancer with Dr. Siegel

In this candid and important episode, we delve into the often sensitive and overlooked topic of intimacy and sexuality during and after cancer. We're excited to be joined by Dr. Samantha Siegel, an inspiring internist from Kaiser Permanente, who brings both her professional expertise and her personal triumph over relapsed/refractory Hodgkin’s Lymphoma into this conversation.

Before we dive in, we want to provide a forewarning that this episode will address explicit sexual topics. We believe it's essential to engage openly and honestly with these matters, as they play a significant role in the lives of those facing cancer. Dr. Siegel's insights will provide valuable guidance, but we understand that this content might not be suitable for all listeners. For further insights into the intersection of cancer and sexuality, don't miss our previous episode featuring Dr. Anne Katz, a certified sexuality counselor and Clinical Nurse Specialist. You can listen to that episode HERE, where Dr. Katz expertly discusses breaking the silence on sexuality in oncology, navigating vulnerable conversations for survivors and their partners, and finding body acceptance after cancer-related physical changes. 

This episode is a reminder that thriving beyond cancer involves addressing all dimensions of life, including intimacy. Join us for this essential conversation with Dr. Samantha Siegel, as we navigate the complexities of intimacy and cancer, offer insights for survivors, care partners, and healthcare professionals alike.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Samantha Siegel is an internist in Kaiser Permanente. She has overcome relapsed/refractory Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, including an autologous bone marrow transplant in June 2022. This has made her passionate about cancer survivorship, integrative medicine and the concept of personal narrative impacting the illness experience. She hopes to pioneer a longitudinal cancer survivorship care model, beginning at diagnosis, that can be replicated in other health systems and to elevate the status of cancer survivorship within ACGME to a distinct, multidisciplinary board certification. Dr. Siegel lives in Davis with her husband, three kids and energetic dog. They enjoy outdoor activities and plant based living.


This podcast is sponsored in part by Kaiser Permanente, Elizabeth A. Harmon D.D.S., and Columbia Bank. It is offered freely to ensure everyone has access to these practices and conversations offered by Wellness Within Cancer Support Services. If you feel inspired to donate to support Wellness Within offerings, please visit www.wellnesswithin.org/give