Sexual activity is an important part of many romantic relationships, but it can be challenging to maintain after traumatic events that cause injury, illness, or disability. Partners may struggle to reestablish physical intimacy due to changes in their bodies, minds, or emotions. This article explores how partners can overcome these obstacles through communication, creativity, and understanding.
Reconstructing Physical Intimacy
Physical intimacy involves touch, sensation, and sexual function. Trauma victims may have difficulty finding pleasure in physical contact due to phantom pain, numbness, scarring, or loss of limbs.
There are ways for couples to adapt and find new forms of intimacy.
They could explore sensual massage, body mapping, or sensitivity training. Couples could also try using props like vibrators, lubricants, or temperature play. These strategies help people feel comfortable while exploring each other's bodies in new ways.
Communicating About Sexual Needs
Communication is key when dealing with wartime injuries. Couples must discuss their needs, fears, and desires openly. They should avoid assumptions about what their partner wants or expects from sex. Honesty is essential for building trust and avoiding misunderstandings. It's also helpful for partners to share resources, support groups, or therapy options. These conversations might involve medical professionals, counselors, or other experts. Open dialogue leads to a deeper connection between partners who understand each other better.
Finding New Ways to Connect Emotionally
Injured partners often struggle emotionally after traumatic events. They may feel ashamed, guilty, or self-conscious about their appearance. Their mental state affects their ability to enjoy physical intimacy. Partners can reconnect by expressing love and appreciation through words, gestures, or actions. This means going beyond the bedroom to show affection, gratitude, or compassion. It requires effort to build emotional closeness without relying on sexual activity alone. Couples can find creative ways to connect as individuals before engaging in physical activities.
How do partners reconstruct physical intimacy when wartime injuries alter body image, sensory experience, or sexual function?
Researchers find that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and burns are among the most common wartime injuries resulting in long-term damage to physical appearance, perception, and performance of veterans who may suffer from sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction (ED) and vaginal dryness.