Sex and Parkinsons Disease

Sex and Parkinsons disease

An individual’s sexuality is a very important aspect of our physical and mental health. When a healthy adult is diagnosed with Parkinsons disease, many aspects of the person’s physical and mental well being are disturbed including his or her sexuality. Having the disease should not be considered a reason for not showing your partner the love you have whether you are the patient or the carer. The first thing a couple should remember is not to forget simple romance. Both partners should make every effort to make the relationship as warm and tender as possible.

Parkinsons disease in a relationship can change the quality of the relationship. The changes occur typically and gradually as the disease progresses. Making love is our natural expression of deep love and sometimes a physical disability such as this disease can cause obstacles or even a total prevention.

The condition can affect the sexual relationship on several different levels, Experiencing symptoms of Parkinsons disease may mean the patient or the carer too tired to sexually perform. This may be a good reason to initiate love making in the morning or in the afternoon following a sleep. Having this disease can also affect the autonomic nervous system which controls a man’s ability to achieve and maintain an erection. This can affects a man’s ability to perform sexually. You may find that adjusting medications may be helpful in limiting such effects. Women suffering from the disease may also be experiencing the menopause. Sexual intercourse may become difficult due to vaginal dryness or pain during intercourse. There are additional treatments available for this.

Having Parkinsons disease can make the sufferer embarrassed of their shaking, tremors, drooling or other involuntary movements. These can often sexually deter the partner too. One suggestion has been to suck a mint whilst lovemaking to encourage swallowing and prevent drooling. Some spouses are afraid of hurting their partner, especially just after diagnosis. Some people notice that the tremors and shaking are worse following lovemaking and believe that this is making the disease itself worse. These are in fact due to an expanding of energy and are temporary.

Both partners may not be interested in pursuing a sexual relationship during the months following the diagnosis. This may be due to worrying about the progression of the disease or the thought of being a burden on their partner. It is always advisable to read as much as possible on the disease so each fear can be faced head on and handled. During the progression of the disease, there may be added or worsening symptoms that may discourage lovemaking by deterring the unaffected partner sexually. If the unaffected partner is also the care giver, they may have difficulties switching from carer to lover.

Since sexualality plays a significant role in a person’s healthy lifesyle, the patient often worries when their sexual desires and needs change. Sexual problems may be frustrating with the onset of Parkinsons disease and this often proves frustrating for both partners. There are often ways to improve or restore sexuality. A doctor can make helpful suggestions on the best course of action to take o solve any problems.