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Well Spouse Frequently Asked Questions
Part 3: Sex, Intimacy, and Body Image Issues
 More of this Feature
• Part 1: Social Issuese
• Part 2: Surgery & Procedures
• Part 4: Doctor Visits and Flare-Ups
 
 Related Resources
• Prednisone
• Prednisone: The Drug We Love To Hate
• My Life as a J-poucher
 
 From Other Guides
• What Happened to My Sex Drive?!?
 
 Elsewhere on the Web
• Tips On What Encourages & What Discourages Someone With A Chronic, Debilitating Illness!
• "But You LOOK Good!" Why Seeing is NOT Believing When Dealing With a Chronic Illness!
• How Does It Feel To Have IBD?
 

Will we EVER have sex again?

     Your spouse's sex drive will likely drop due to a variety of psychological and physical factors, including medication, poor body image, and fatigue. Being angry or frustrated only makes it worse. Respect your spouse's conditions but also be sensitive to your own needs as well. When medication is involved, there are good times and bad times -- plan for them. Most importantly, you must communicate both of your concerns. Communication is key.

How can I help with body image issues?

     Be prepared for the impact that drugs like Prednisone have on the human body. Side effects include puffiness, weight gain, and hair growth. If you're prepared, you'll be ready when those side-effects surface.

     Remember that your spouse's weight is likely to fluctuate over time. Your spouse does not need to hear anything negative about his or her weight - he or she is already thinking precisely that criticism in their heads. Additionally, prepare friends and family ahead of time for your spouse's change in appearance to avoid unpleasant surprises.

What should I NOT do?

You should NOT:

  1. Criticize or ridicule your spouse's time in the bathroom.
  2. Criticize or ridicule your spouse's body image.
  3. Tell your spouse to "hold it" when looking for a bathroom.
  4. Be embarrassed by your spouse's condition.
  5. Tell your spouse to "just relax".

Next page > What you can do on doctor visits > Page 1, 2, 3, 4

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