Living with the pain, stiffness, fatigue, limited movement and decreased strength and movement as a result of having arthritis can reduce our physical ability for sexual expression and fulfillment. The physical effects of arthritis can also have an emotional impact on sexual relations because of concomitant depression.

Those affected by any of the over a 100 different types of arthritis or associated rheumatic conditions also may experience decreased sexual attractiveness, desire and satisfaction, diminished sexual arousal, decreased sensation, increased sensitivity to being touched, decreased endurance, limitation of motion, vaginal dryness, decreased or absent orgasm and impotence.

Sexuality is an integral part of human culture and if you are one of the approximately 73 million Americans who suffer from arthritis or any related rheumatic condition, sexual enjoyment and fulfillment is possible if you begin overcoming barriers.

Having arthritis may make you feel less desirable or confident and the fear of pain can cause anxiety that makes it difficult to relax and enjoy sex. Begin overcoming potential barriers by openly and honestly addressing your feelings, desires, challenges, sexual needs and other concerns with your partner in order to provide your partner with a chance to reassure, support and to better understand your concerns.

Talk openly with your partner to find the positions and techniques that are more comfortable. If talking openly is not your strength, then consider writing a note to your partner to express your fears or concerns. 

Working together with your partner and using massage to help relax  muscles and joints, even as a form of foreplay can help start the sexual act. Excessive dryness can be relieved by water-based lubricating gels. Consider piling up pillows or rolled sheets to support painful joints. In order to keep off the fatigue or stiffness from getting in the way of pleasurable sexual activity, consider sexual activity at the time of the day you are likely to be more rested or less stiff.

Also taking a nap before sexual activity or taking a warm shower before sexual activity may help ease stiffness and fatigue. Pace yourself to save energy for you and your partner and strive for emotional and physical closeness through different techniques and new positions. With a positive attitude, a little creativity, patience, and planning, individuals affected by arthritis can rediscover the benefits of sexual intimacy.

Consider timing pain medication so its maximum effects is during sex. Your local rheumatologist or arthritis doctor can help diagnose your type of arthritis and advise your about the best medicines for your type of arthritis as well as to give you advise if you have other medical concerns. Your rheumatologist can also advise you about exercises that will help reduce your joint stiffness, pain and fatigue and improve your overall sense of well being that can contribute to more fulfilling sexual relationships.

The ARC-Arthritis and Rheumatology Clinic is a new clinic dedicated and specializing in arthritis and osteoporosis care and is located at the Cypress Physician Building, next to the Heart of Florida Hospital, 40124 Hwy 27, Suite 206, Davenport, Florida. Dr. Edgar A. Martorell is a board certified rheumatologist and fellow member of the American College of Rheumatology who received his training at the Mayo Clinic and Tufts Medical Center in Boston. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 863-588-4180.