Watch in the Ask Sophie section of the Sx With Sophie Forum to engage with members directly: https://withsophie.co/forum/ask-sophie QUESTION SexWithSophie.com member Emily asks: How do you navigate sex when you're chronically ill with a condition that greatly limits your energy and recovery? ANSWER The video gives tips and tricks for anyone suffering from a chronic illness, but here is some of the most helpful advice if you suffer from low energy and prolonged recovery like Emily: • Communicate your anxieties with your partner • Incorporate more intimacy without the expectation of sx • Strengthen your pelvic floor • Track your symptoms and emotions • Schedule sx, which sounds very un-sexy, but can be fun • Plan to take meds, soak in a warm bath, and prep beforehand • Save your energy by delegating as much as possible • Find a knowledgeable LMFT, sx therapist, or sexologist Of course, watch the video for more! I researched a ton of great information on adjustments you can make if you have a specific condition like arthritis, lung disease, dementia, or diabetes to name a few. ASK SOPHIE Ask Sophie is a video advice column where you can submit your burning sex questions (or questions about burning sex) for Sophie to research. Share your question via video, audio, or text; whatever makes you most comfortable! Sophie will research an answer and send you a video response as soon as possible. Visit https://sexwithsophie.com and become a member for FREE to join in! ABOUT SOPHIE Hi! I’m Sophie, a Social Data Scientist, wife, and mother of two. Despite my best attempts, I found it very difficult to find real information about sx, beyond 🌽, which simply isn't a reflection of what goes on in real life! I decided to put my Master's Degree in Healthcare Informatics and certifications in Cognitive Neuroscience and Information Technology to work and build resources that use real-world data to uncover the truth about what happens in our collective bedrooms. CLINICIANS Sign up for a Clinicians Only membership at https://sexwithsophie.com, and weigh in with your thoughts. Your comments will have a Bee Badge so everyone will know that you are sharing a more informed perspective! RESOURCES Sx With Sophie: https://withsophie.co Ask Sophie: https://withsophie.co/ask-sophie 'The Chronic' Focus Group: https://withsophie.co/group/the-chronic Perifit Pelvic Floor Exerciser: https://amzn.to/3A6mcmZ Book - 5 Love Languages: https://amzn.to/4ftFG52 Book - Sex–Interrupted: https://amzn.to/3SpTGCW CITATIONS Benavidez, G. A., Zahnd, W. E., Hung, P., & Eberth, J. M. (2024). Chronic disease prevalence in the US: Sociodemographic and geographic variations by ZIP code tabulation area. Preventing Chronic Disease, 21. https://doi.org/10.5888/pcd21.230267 Nusbaum, M. R., Hamilton, C., & Lenahan, P. (2003). Chronic illness and sexual functioning. American family physician, 67(2), 347–354. Zink, I., & Palter, J. (2020). Sex-Interrupted: Igniting Intimacy While Living With Illness Or Disability. Rocketto, L. (2021, May 24). 7 Tips from a Rheumatology Nurse to Help Maintain Sex and Intimacy When Living with a Chronic Illness. CreakyJoints. https://creakyjoints.org/lifestyle/maintain-sex-intimacy-with-chronic-illness Department of Health & Human Services. (n.d.). Sex and chronic illness. Better Health Channel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/servicesandsupport/Sex-and-chronic-illness#bhc-content Sexuality after chronic illness: What to expect. (n.d.). https://www.henryford.com/services/gynecology/sexual-health/sexuality-after-illness WARNING Sophie is not a doctor, therapist, or licensed medical or mental health professional. This video is a collection of research, data, and information; it is NOT medical advice. Please consult your provider to discuss your plan and ensure you are healthy enough for sexual activity.
