Endometriosis, which is when the endometrial lining begins to grow outside of the uterus, can be a difficult condition to cope with. It can cause long, heavy menstrual periods and abdominal and lower back pain. What you might not realize is that endometriosis can also affect your sex life. Here are some of the ways in which your condition may already be affecting you in the bedroom.
Painful Sexual Intercourse
It isn’t uncommon for endometriosis sufferers to experience pain during sexual intercourse, according to WebMD. If you notice pain during sex, your first reaction may be to use a lubricant, but this might not help. Pain will generally continue until you have had the condition treated. Finding the right sexual position can help reduce pain during sex as well. Positions which do not allow for deep penetration are most ideal.
Bleeding After Sex
Bleeding during sex, which you will generally notice after sex or on the condom, is another one of the ways in which endometriosis can affect your sex life. Whether or not you experience bleeding after sex depends on where the endometrial growths are located and how deeply they have grown, according to WebMD. Endometriosis treatments are generally the only way to get rid of this sex problem.
Communication Problems
There are several ways in which endometriosis can cause communication problems in your relationship and, ultimately, tension in your sex life. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort during sex, you might feel disconnected from your partner. The pain that you experience during sex as a result of endometriosis may feel embarrassing to talk about, but it can help your partner understand what’s going on.
Another time when you may experience communication problems in your relationship as a result of endometriosis is if you and your partner decide that you want to try to conceive a baby. Trying to conceive with no success can be frustrating and make sex less enjoyable. Talking to your partner about how you are feeling can help you overcome the problem. It is also ideal to schedule an appointment so that both you and your partner can talk to your healthcare provider about treatment options and the steps that you may need to take in order to become pregnant.
If you have endometriosis, you will likely find that it affects your sex life in more ways than one. Keeping an open, honest relationship with your partner is one of the best ways to prevent problems that may be caused by your condition from ruining the intimacy in your relationship.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. If you’re concerned about your health, consult with a licensed healthcare professional.
Sources:
WebMD, “Endometriosis – Symptoms.”
WebMD, “Treatment for Painful Intercourse in Women.”