A: Yes. Because of stiffness and joint pain, some sexual positions and acts might aggravate joints and be uncomfortable. The degree to which arthritis affects a person's sex life varies from day to day, and from joint to joint.
A: No. It's highly unlikely that sexual activity will cause any damage.
A: Comfortable sexual positions differ from patient to patient. Experiment to find a few that work for you. Your joints will let you know right away if a position is going to be comfortable or not.
In general, sexual positions that involve sitting are more painful for arthritic backs, but if you're on the bottom, you should have very little back discomfort. Turning your legs out—pointing your feet away from each other—is also generally more comfortable for stiff hips.
A: Try to have sex during the time of day when your joints are the most comfortable or loose, and when you feel most energetic. If walking helps limber you up, take a walk before sexual activity. Or, if you find it soothing, take a warm bath. Also, time your medicine with sexual activity. If you know you feel best an hour or two after taking your medicine, take it in the hour or two before having sex.
A: Arthritis symptoms tend to come and go. You might have a day, a week or even a few months that are relatively pain-free, followed by days of stiffness or soreness. The pain-free days may occur when the weather is mild or when you've been able to strictly follow your doctor's prescribed therapy plan. As arthritis progresses beyond the early stages, however, the pain can become more continuous.
A: It depends on the specific medications you're taking. Some medicines can cause vaginal dryness, while narcotics, prescribed to manage pain, can leave you feeling tired or lacking in energy. On the other hand, many patients find that their medications actually increase their sex drive by alleviating stiffness, soreness and pain.
A: Treat typical stiffness and pain that follows sex the same way you would treat discomfort after working in the yard or sitting in a car. Warm soaks, rest and the use of prescribed medicines are generally very helpful. If the pain is different from the pain you usually experience, talk to your doctor. You should never feel increased or excessive joint or back pain before, during or after sex.
A: Be open and honest. Express the level of pain you're in as well as your willingness to explore different, less painful positions. Most people are very concerned about their partners and their level of pain and discomfort. They usually want sex to be satisfying and enjoyable for both people and are willing to try positions that will not be painful. It's also important to remember that intimacy and sex don't always mean intercourse. If you're experiencing a flare, explore sexual activities that do not involve intercourse. Be patient with yourself and with your partner, and remember that sex is supposed to be fun, not stressful.
