Backby S. Chris Saad and Andrew E. Behrendt
As published in The Journal of Sex Research
Although most people with scleroderma work out their own solutions to the sexual difficulties that can be caused by scleroderma, some may need or desire sex therapy. Women have intercourse much less frequently after the onset of scleroderma and they are significantly less sexually satisfied one year after onset of scleroderma than they were one year before the condition's onset. (Bhadauria et al., 1995). According to Annon (1976), most sex therapy clients need only permission, limited information, and specific suggestions to alleviate the majority of sexual problems. Only infrequently do clients require intensive therapy. Following Annon's model, we provide information about scleroderma and suggestions for engaging in sexual activity to help those with scleroderma remain sexually active.
There are many ways a person with scleroderma can insure comfort during sexual activity. It is helpful for someone with Raynaud's phenomenon to adjust room temperature before disrobing. Remaining partially clothed or using additional blankets can help make sexual activity more comfortable. It is important to keep the entire body warm, as a Raynaud's episode can occur if any part of the body is chilled. (Stephenson, 1992).
Pain can be alleviated by analgesics. Advance scheduling of sexual activity can help insure that it proceeds with minimum discomfort. A person can plan to have sexual activity when rested and least fatigued and when anti-inflammatory drugs are working. A warm bath or shower prior to sexual activity often eases joint stiffness. Range of motion exercises before sex may help, but the person must stop exercising before reaching the point of pain or fatigue. Extra pillows placed underneath painful joints often facilitate a minimum of stress (Katzin, 1990; Schover, 1989). The couple can experiment with sexual positions to find those that are the most comfortable (Bhadauria et al., 1995; Mooradian, 1991). Sexual activity can be extremely painful for a woman whose vagina does not lubricate because of Sjogren's syndrome. This problem is easily solved with the use of a water- based lubricant (Redfern, 1991). Use of a lubricant can also be helpful for women with dyspareunia(painful intercourse) (Bhadauria et al., 1995).
Chris Saad, who co-authored this article, has a PhD in Human
Sexuality Education from the University of Pennsysvania. She has had scleroderma since
1985. If you have any questions, or would like to find out how to obtain the entire
article, you can reach her at:
ssaad@wcupa.edu