Sexual relationships - from partner to patient
Long-term illness or disability may have a significant impact on even the healthiest of physical relationships. Once the initial feelings of shock subside, many couples find themselves going through a period of mourning, a time when they are coming to terms with changes in lifestyle, personal identity and all aspects of their relationship, not least sexual. It can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, with anger, guilt, sadness, loss, frustration and yearning all playing a part. When couples are able to talk openly about these emotions, it can bring them closer together. But many find they are dealing with the myriad of distressing emotions alone and may find themselves feeling isolated and resentful. If this sounds familiar, click here to find out how counselling might help you through this time.Sexual relationships
When caring, all sorts of areas of life are affected in different ways. The one area that receives little, if any, attention is that of sexual relationships. One of the most common questions carers have is whether or not it is safe to have sex with their partner, for example, if their partner has had a heart attack or stroke. Doctors and health visitors can often provide the answers. If you don't feel able to discuss such matters face-to-face, you could contact any of the websites listed below, or the website dealing with the specific condition relevant to your circumstances.If your partner has received an injury that restricts mobility then finding a comfortable position may be a problem. Again, because this is dependent on each individual case, there is no one answer. However, there are a number of organisations that can provide a range of information on issues related to sexual relationships. Some are listed at the bottom of this page.
Another issue that carers can find difficult is the loss of their wider physical relationship. By this they often don't just mean sexual intercourse, they mean the physical contact that is part of an intimate relationship, the hugs and cuddles that make us feel wanted and attractive. Again this is a loss and needs to be acknowledged as such. Recognise that your partner may be missing that comfort as well. If you can talk read more
