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Post by Master, Doctor Mai Vien Phuong - Gastrointestinal Endoscopy - Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.
Crohn's disease can be accompanied by many progressions and challenges. Maintaining a satisfying sex life is a particularly difficult challenge in this pathology. Abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and having to rush to the bathroom are all effects of Crohn's disease on sex life.
1. What is Crohn's disease?
Crohn's disease may not be as well known as cancer or heart disease, but it can be life-threatening if left untreated. Crohn's is a chronic inflammatory disease of the digestive tract that usually affects the large and small intestines, although it can also wreak havoc on any part of the digestive tract.
Symptoms of Crohn's disease usually develop gradually. Some symptoms may also get worse over time. Although it can happen, it is rare for symptoms to develop suddenly. The earliest symptoms of Crohn's disease can include: Diarrhea, blood in the stools, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss...
Sometimes these signs can be mistaken for a condition other, such as food poisoning, stomach upset, or allergies. Therefore, you should see your doctor if any of these symptoms persist.
2. Sex and Crohn's disease
Crohn's disease can be accompanied by many progressions and challenges. Maintaining a satisfying sex life can be a particularly daunting challenge. Abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and the need to rush to the bathroom are all effects of Crohn's disease on sex life.
Besides, body image problems due to post-surgery scarring, anal sacs as well as fistulas around the anal and genital areas can make sex painful, affecting the quality of life. your sexual self-esteem. However, you can still have a more comfortable sex life with Crohn's disease by:
Replace the ostomy bag just before sex: If you have an anal sac, replace it just before sex and talk to your doctor about how to hold it tight so it doesn't come loose out during sex. Talk to your doctor about anal or genital fistulas that make sex uncomfortable or painful. Fistulas can usually be treated. Use a mattress pad before sex if you're worried about possible problems. This will make cleaning easier. Certain medications for Crohn's disease can decrease sex drive. In women, corticosteroids can contribute to vaginal yeast infections. Discuss these issues with your doctor. However, do not stop using any medication without consulting your doctor. Learn to recognize the signs of impending illness. Once you know these things, you can adjust your sex schedule accordingly. Find other ways to express intimacy and love besides intercourse. Relationships are not just about sex. Having a partner with whom you can talk about these issues is a form of intimacy. Communicating with people: Be honest about how you and your partner feel, your fears, and your comfort level. In short, crohn will affect the sex life of the patient. Consult your doctor or sex therapist to help you improve your sex life.
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References:Christensen, B. (2014, January). Inflammatory bowel disease and sexual dysfunction ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4008960/ Sexuality. (n.d.) crohnsandcolitis.org.nz/Sexuality The intimate relationship of sex and IBD. (2012, May 1) ccfa.org/resources/sex-and-ibd.html