Experimenting with a partner can help both parties identify what works best for them, both individually and as a couple. Sexual experience is personal, and everyone is different. If certain positions do not work or make symptoms difficult, the partners can work together to find alternatives. Both partners should work together to express what they need to feel sexual satisfaction and how they can both get there.

Other intimacy tips that may help include: CommunicationĬommunication is a key part of any sexual encounter and may be especially important when working around a chronic condition such as COPD. It is an individual process that the person and their partner should explore together to identify what feels best. The exact sexual position that works best for a person with COPD will vary in each case. This could involve one partner sitting on the edge of the bed while the other kneels in front of them, or both partners kneeling, with one bending over and resting their chest on the bed.

People can also try to utilize a kneeling position to make intercourse easier. It is important that the partner on top does not press down on the other’s chest. This position may also benefit from the use of pillows to help prop the torso up to ensure they stay at an incline and can breathe easily. The partner with COPD laying downĪs it is less likely to be an exertive position, the person with COPD can lie on their back while their partner is on top, in either the missionary or a riding position. Alternatively, people can also face each other while on their side. The position is simple and allows for easy penetration without too much work from either person. Lying on the side, or “spooning,” during sex may help keep both parties from exerting themselves too much. Some positions to consider may include: Lying on the side Sex is about having fun and connecting with a partner, so it is important to communicate during sex and state whether a position is comfortable and pleasurable. Similar to other aspects of daily life, making some simple changes, such as communicating and finding less strenuous positions, may help a person with COPD achieve sexual satisfaction.įor people who find sex difficult due to COPD symptoms, experimenting with sex positions may help keep sex enjoyable without putting too much stress on the body or making symptoms worse. As such, it is important for healthcare professionals to discuss potential sexual problems. Some evidence suggests that lower blood oxygen levels, psychological factors, and other associated conditions such as sleep apnea and diabetes may affect erections.ĭespite evidence that people with COPD may be at a higher risk for sexual dysfunction, there are currently no specific guidelines on how best to engage with people who have COPD regarding their sexual well‐being. Symptoms frequently caused sexual dysfunction, including reduced sexual desire and sexual appetite.ĬOPD may also contribute to other factors that may impact sex, such as erectile dysfunction. Some people may also find that this level of activity exacerbates some symptoms of COPD.Ī 2020 study notes that 60% of sexually active people with COPD had to make changes to their sexual life because of COPD. As COPD progresses, the increasing breathlessness can make it difficult for people to participate in strenuous activities such as sex. Even with treatment, COPD can make some regular activities difficult.

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