Inflammatory forms of arthritis often have a negative impact on sex life

It isn’t surprising but is rarely discussed… inflammatory forms of arthritis can have a negative impact on sex life.

Perhaps the channels of communication will improve now that a large review of the evidence highlights the link between inflammatory arthritis and issues in the bedroom.

The analysis of 55 studies in Arthritis Care and Research found that men and women with inflammatory arthritis report pain, fatigue, and mobility restrictions contribute to sexual dysfunction and reduced sexual desire.

For some men erectile dysfunction is a problem. Women experience pressure to continue intimate relationships despite their sexual dysfunction, which causes stress in relationships for some people.

Dr Andrew Briggs comments:

“Sexual health and positive relationships are key factors in a person’s general sense of wellbeing, yet these issues are not routinely dealt with in practice. Our data suggest that consideration of the impact of inflammatory arthritis on sexual health and intimacy may be important for the holistic management of people with inflammatory arthritis.”

Click here to read the original research. 

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