Relationships, Intimacy and Sex with Arthritis

<p>Navigating intimate relationships while managing a chronic illness can be tricky - how and when do you disclose your disability?  How do you experiment with sexual positions without “ruining the mood?” Is it possible to communicate with your partner in a way that’s respectful and empowering?</p><p>In this episode, five panelists share their best advice for *all* aspects of romantic and intimate relationships, including: </p><ul><li>Communication tips for all stages of relationships, from first dates to marriage</li><li>How to workaround fatigue that makes it hard to get “in the mood”</li><li>Positions that work for wrist or hip pain</li><li>Lubes that work for dryness</li><li>Workarounds for jaw pain during oral sex</li><li>How do disabilities or health conditions contribute to power dynamics in relationships</li><li>The importance of emotional connections</li><li>The importance of self-love and respect</li><li>Why STD prevention and protection are particularly important for people on immunosuppressive medications</li><li>Panelists’ best advice for newly diagnosed patients who might be worried about how their condition will affect their sex life and relationships</li></ul><p>*Trigger warning - in minutes 30-40 there are descriptions of pressuring and coercion into sex without protection</p><p>**This episode discusses adult topics (sex) and includes explicit language.</p><p><strong>Minute by Minute breakdown:</strong></p><p>Episode breakdown:</p><ul><li>02:00 - Introduction to panelists: Chloe, Jo, Ali, Paulina & Cheryl.</li><li>3:20 - (Chloe) How juvenile arthritis affected her relationships </li><li>07:55 – (Jo) How Jo learned the importance of communication</li><li>11:42 – (Ali) Learning to experiment with positions and work around fatigue</li><li>16:20 - (Paulina) The importance of communication & emotional connection</li><li>23:00 - (Cheryl) Reflection on power dynamics in relationships.</li><li>24:25 – (Chloe) Strong emotional connections affect vaginal lubrication.</li><li>25:22 – (Chloe) How jaw pain af