Sex and Arthritis.

Arthritis and sex

Does arthritis affect sex?

People with arthritis may encounter special challenges in attaining sexual enjoyment.

While arthritis usually doesn't directly affect the sexual parts of the body, it can present obstacles for you or your partner, such as:

• physical problems due to arthritis--for example, fatigue, pain, stiffness, vaginal dryness
• side effects from medications. For example, fatigue, impotence, risk for infections, weight gain or bloating
• emotional reactions--for example, negative self-image, depression, or other emotional problems that may or may not be due to arthritis
• relationship problems--for example, conflicts with your partner related to the stresses of your illness, or your partner's fear of causing you physical pain

Problems such as these may decrease your interest in sex and may change how you think and feel about yourself. Your body may physically be able to respond sexually, but the way you or your partner feels or the way you see yourselves may limit your interest in sex.

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