Sex And Neuropathy

Today's post from livingwithperipheralneuropathy.com (see link below) tackles a tricky topic associated with neuropathy symptoms and that is the effect that they have on your physical relationships. It's hugely underestimated purely because people are uncomfortable talking about physical intimacy and frankly...that's ridiculous. Being able to talk to your doctor and more importantly your partner about these problems is a huge step towards taking away the guilt and shame that people unnecessarily have. This article only scratches the surface of the issue but to be fair, at least he's brought it up and put it out there for discussion. We're talking sex here and need to be more open about this basic human function, which if it lets us down, opens up a whole new can of mental and physical neuropathic worms associated with dealing with the disease. If this is an issue with you; first of all talk to your partner because they're directly involved and maybe be blaming themselves for any sudden, or gradual drop in desire. Most partners will be only too willing to help look for solutions and those who don't may not be the ideal partner you thought they were. Secondly, go to your doctor and if that's a problem, there are countless sexual health services available which will help you anonymously (and of course...the internet). With the advance in sexual aids for both men and women, there's no reason why you shouldn't have a satisfying sex life, even with severe neuropathy. In other words, put the issue on the table...physical intimacy is far too important to be hidden behind the blushes!

How Does Peripheral Neuropathy Affect Intimacy?
By Dean S. Lewis|October 4th, 2016|Categories: Neuropathy
 
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that causes damages to peripheral nerves that connect with the central nervous system, causing a disruption in the transmission of information round trip from and to the central nervous system and the area of the body affected. Among the most common problems but not limited to these there is the inability to feel sensations, moving, dysfunctional organs and glands, all this depending upon the affected nerve.

Peripheral neuropathy is a problem that affects not only to the patient, but to the loved ones who in many occasions, more than usual, must occupy a central place in the lives of those affected when taking charge of many of the most common daily activities, that in turn, leads to intimacy problems with couples whose relationship is equally or more affected by this problem, depending on the degree of understanding and support the partner shows to the patient with peripheral neuropathy.

For instance, simple things like having to walk with a cane, above all if you are too young for using such device, that may cause your partner to feel upset or embarrassed by seeing you in that condition. Again, it all depends on how involved your partner is with you to support and love you no matter what, as we see some partners that take care even more than you about your problem with peripheral neuropathy by following strictly your doctor’s recommendations.

Another situation presents in patients with peripheral neuropathy with diabetes, some might blame their sudden lack of interest on intimacy to their workload, when they truly are unaware that diabetes is the subadjacent cause.



For women with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy things can be even worse, since they may experience difficulty to lubricate, enjoy orgasms or even feel sexual desire, due to some nerve damage. Add to this the sudden mood changes by the abrupt swings in blood glucose levels, stress and you will end up with a harsh situation affecting even the most loving relationship.

However, research show that those patients with peripheral neuropathy with good diabetes control might enjoy a normal and satisfactory intimacy with their couple.

The key in these cases with intimacy problems related to peripheral neuropathy is to have an understanding and supportive partner so the patient can overcome the problem and enjoy even more those intimate moments despite of peripheral neuropathy.

http://www.livingwithperipheralneuropathy.com/peripheral-neuropathy-affecting-intimacy/