Being Intimate, Physically and Emotionally

Being Intimate, Physically and Emotionally

Through the Fog

What used to be something that came naturally, more or less, now requires greater intent. Chronic pain and fatigue can be a real downer in our continued pursuit of a healthy sexual relationship. Even though we want to be engaged emotionally, fatigue and brain fog can make it seem like we’re climbing Mount Everest.

Pain, fatigue, and some medications (or their side effects) can diminish sexual desire and, perhaps, satisfaction. If our partner is also acting as our caregiver, it can be challenging to relate as a couple. Setting aside some time to listen to music, perhaps light candles, and generally set a mood for intimacy  can be helpful. As much as we’d like our sex life to be spontaneous, it’s not necessarily that way anymore.

I think we could all use some variety and playfulness in our relationships. It takes the stress off “performance.” Maybe using different scented massage oils or lotions (just not something strong if your partner is sensitive to smells), the above-mentioned candles, and plenty of time to set the mood is what we might need. The end goal is what you mutually decide on. No pressure to perform in a certain manner also helps build emotional intimacy, and helps to deepen your bond.

Re-connecting emotionally

Open and honest communication with your partner is key. Share your fears and concerns with one another. Share your expectations and limitations. If you are unable to complete the sexual activity, there needs to be a level of understanding and acceptance. This is just one more area of our “new normal” to which we need to adjust.

Our weight changes, loss of hair, decreased libido, inability to maintain certain physical positions, all combine to create a seemingly hopeless situation. Recognize that you’re doing the best you can and give yourself a break!

Some of the many benefits of sex, according to Dr. Mark Pellegrino, is how it “increases our body’s endorphins; it improves blood flow, removes toxins from cells, and boosts our immune system; it results in stretching and then relaxation of our muscles; it reduces stress; and it re-connects us emotionally and intimately.”

No need to rush things, but if this is something that’s been missing from your relationship, begin to slowly restore this vital part of it.

Note: Fibromyalgia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Fibromyalgia News Today, or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to fibromyalgia.

3 comments

  1. amol joshi says:

    Spicing things up in the bedroom and making your partner uncomfortable are two absolutely different things. Physical intimacy in the bedroom is a two-way street! You get what you give. You can ask him why you want to role play this situations. People like have all kind of new ways and find new ways for physical intimacy spicing up in bedroom. Depend on you if your comfortable and if your not tell them. Because Physical intimacy in the bedroom is a two-way and both should enjoy it.

Leave a Comment