Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Sponsored by Hollister
Login   |  
Forgot password?
 
Forum
Videos
Reviews
About Us
Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Where Everybody Understands You
41,455 members
Oct 12, 2011

Is the Loss of Intimacy Due to My Medical Condition?

This topic is about the challenges a 63-year-old man is facing with intimacy after having ostomy surgery and experiencing erectile dysfunction following cancer treatment. He is concerned about how these changes are affecting his marriage, especially after a recent unsatisfying experience with his wife. Here are some pieces of advice and insights that might help:

1. Don't jump to conclusions based on one bad experience. It's important to ask your partner how she feels and listen carefully, without assuming that the ostomy is the only issue.

2. Open and gentle communication is key. If talking directly as a couple becomes difficult, consider involving a neutral third party like a counselor, doctor, or trusted elder to help both partners express their concerns without placing blame.

3. Both partners may experience feelings of grief, fear, and changes in body image after an illness. It's important for both to have a space to process these emotions.

4. Erectile dysfunction doesn't have to mean the end of a fulfilling sex life. Consider exploring other forms of intimacy such as touch, cuddling, oral or manual stimulation, or using vibrators. Many people find that sexual intimacy is as much about emotional connection as it is about physical interaction.

5. Penile injections and implants can be effective for many men. It's important to discuss these options together with a urologist to understand the benefits and what they involve.

6. For practical tips on intimacy with an ostomy:
- Consider using mini-pouches or special intimate pouches during intimate moments.
- Use pouch covers from ostomy supply companies to conceal the appliance.
- Consult an ostomy nurse for product recommendations and skin-care advice.

7. Strengthen your emotional connection by sharing everyday tasks like chores, cooking, and caring for your child. This can help ease tension related to sexual issues.

8. Address fears by acknowledging them, sharing them with your partner, and seeking information. Understanding often reduces fear.

9. A suggested resource for improving relationship skills is available on YouTube at the channel "SonikaTinker."

10. Remember that change and new beginnings can happen at any age. Focusing on the choices you have rather than what you've lost can help you move forward.
See full discusison
Gray Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
MeetAnOstoMate.org

MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,455 members.

“I found real people, real humor, and answers I couldn’t get anywhere else.”

“The support here impressed my husband’s medical team - they plan to recommend it.”

“This community saved me when I thought I was a freak. Now I’m thriving.”

“Thank god for this site - I finally knew what to ask my surgeon.”

Join Free

Popular Topics

Living with a New Colostomy and Old Urostomy: Tips and Advice
Radiation and Chemo Effects on Colostomy
Hiiii
M9 Deodorant: Miracle or Myth?
Hii
Hey stoma mamas!
First Solo Bag Change and Embracing My New Body
What do you call it?
Anti-fungal Powders
Hello from north of England

New Topics

Healthy Shakes!
The bull
Deciding to Keep My Colostomy: My Personal Journey
new to meetan ostomate forum
New Products
Rerun: The Park
SALAD
The Lazy Ostemates Guide to Sloth
First Trip to Las Vegas Post-Ileostomy: Tips and Advice?
DECISIONS, DECISIONS
About us | Privacy policy | Terms of use | Ostomy Blogs | Ostomy Q&A | Guides | Contact Us
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and Google Privacy Policy and Google Terms of Service apply.
Copyright (c) MeetAnOstoMate.org All Rights Reserved
Create Account
Login
↑