Sometimes the physical and emotional symptoms associated with arthritis can affect relationships, including sexual expression and enjoyment. However, there are ways to overcome these challenges.
Will arthritis affect my sex life?
Arthritis rarely affects the sexual organs, although vaginal dryness may be experienced with some conditions. However, the emotional and physical effects of the disease can seriously impact on your appetite for, and enjoyment of, sex. If you experience a change in your physical appearance, such as weight gain or loss, or a decrease in mobility or energy, the way you view yourself may change. You may feel less desirable to others or physically fragile. If you are having a flare of your arthritis your joints may be simply too painful for you to have sex – and you need to be open about this.
The fear of pain may make it difficult to relax and enjoy sex, and may even cause your partner to worry about causing you pain.
It is important to remember that if you can openly and honestly discuss these issues with your partner, arthritis can make you closer and may even improve your sex life. Remember, emotional intimacy is equally important for a romantic relationship – trust, honesty and openness help to build a secure intimate relationship.
Arthritis does not have to signal the end of an intimate relationship. You can learn ways to make the relationship work.
Source and credit: Arthritis Australia