Health
Overcome the Pain to Enjoy Sex
Many arthritis-related problems should not pose a bar to lovemaking, experts say. The University of Washington's Sex and Arthritis site offers help on overcoming such obstacles.
An overview says physical problems may be accompanied by side effects of medication, emotional reactions and relationship problems. An arthritis sufferer may be capable of sex, but lose interest.
But by accepting body changes, a positive self-image can be rebuilt. Talk to your partner and work together to discover satisfying options for both of you. Planning is a major help in enjoying sex when pain and fatigue have been constant companions, researchers say.
Exercise your limbs. Take a warm bath or shower before sex to relax and soothe joints and muscles. Suggested positions to lessen the strain are described and illustrated with line drawings.
An overview says physical problems may be accompanied by side effects of medication, emotional reactions and relationship problems. An arthritis sufferer may be capable of sex, but lose interest.
But by accepting body changes, a positive self-image can be rebuilt. Talk to your partner and work together to discover satisfying options for both of you. Planning is a major help in enjoying sex when pain and fatigue have been constant companions, researchers say.
Exercise your limbs. Take a warm bath or shower before sex to relax and soothe joints and muscles. Suggested positions to lessen the strain are described and illustrated with line drawings.
