Sexuality helps fulfill the vital need for human connection.
However, when chronic pain invades your life, the pleasures of sexuality often disappear.
There is a complex interaction between sexuality and chronic pain.
Here’s help on how to reconnect with your sexuality in spite of the chronic pain.
Sometimes pain is the direct cause of sexual problems.
You may simply hurt too much to consider having sex.
Adjusting your pain medication may be the solution.
If your pain is so severe that sex seems out of the question, talk to your doctor.
You may need to adjust the timing of your medication or create a different or stronger pain control plan.
Alternatively, certain medications, particularly pain medications, may cause sexual problems.
Some medicines diminish sex drive (libido) or inhibit sexual function by causing changes in your nervous system.
Drugs may also affect blood flow and hormones, which are two important factors in sexual response.
Tell your doctor about any medication side effects that seem to be affecting your sexuality.
Your doctor may be able to recommend an alternative medication or adjust the dose of your current medication.
To have satisfying sex, you gotta feel good about yourself.
So start by examining your own emotions.
Stress can also worsen underlying difficulties in your relationship.
Even strong relationships can be challenged by medical problems or chronic pain.
The next step in reclaiming your sexuality is to talk with your partner about your feelings.
Sex can be difficult to talk about.
Begin your sentences with “I” rather than “you.”
This is the time for both of you to talk about your fears and desires.
Instead, your partner may be fearful of causing you more physical pain or discomfort.
Spend time just getting to know each other again.
Each of you might do little things that will make the other feel loved.
Restoring your emotional intimacy will make it easier to move to the next step of physical intimacy.
The goal is not orgasm.
Instead, you’re learning more about what feels good to you and to your partner.
Sexual intercourse is just one way to satisfy your need for human closeness.
Intimacy can be expressed in many different ways.
Intimacy can be more satisfying if you plan for it in advance.
Take your pain medication well in advance so that its effectiveness will peak when you need it.
Limit the amount of alcohol you drink and avoid using tobacco in any form.
Alcohol and tobacco can impair sexual function.
Give yourself plenty of time to try new things.
give a shot to stay relaxed and keep your sense of humor.
Focus on the journey, not the destination.
if you catch setbacks, try not to become discouraged or focus on the negative.
Intimacy can actually make you feel better.
The body’s natural painkillers, called endorphins, are released during touch and sex.
Updated: 2017-02-21
Publication Date: 2002-02-04
