Couples adjust their sexual behavior in response to changes in veteran's mental or physical health for various reasons. If a veteran has post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), they may have trouble establishing an emotional connection with their partner during intercourse. This can lead them to avoid closeness or even become angry if touched. Couples might need to experiment with different ways of being intimate that do not involve physical contact, such as talking more openly about feelings or engaging in nonsexual activities like cuddling. Alternatively, couples might find ways to modify their sexual practices so that the veteran is less likely to be triggered, such as using a dark room or taking things slowly. Another issue is that many veterans suffer from chronic pain due to injuries sustained while serving, which can make traditional sex positions uncomfortable or impossible. In these cases, couples must get creative and explore alternative positions that work around the pain.
Some veterans may develop erectile dysfunction (ED) after returning home, making it difficult for them to perform satisfactorily. To accommodate this change, couples may try new techniques, such as masturbation, oral sex, or aphrodisiacs. The key is communication between partners to discover what works best for both parties involved. Veterans who lose limbs often struggle with self-esteem issues related to their changed body image, which can impact their desire and ability to participate in sexual activity. Couples should focus on exploring all areas of the body instead of just genital stimulation, emphasizing that love and intimacy are more than physical attraction. Lastly, some veterans may experience traumatic brain injury (TBI), leading them to act out of character during intercourse or have memory lapses that make it challenging to remember past events. Couples should avoid judging each other and provide support by practicing patience and understanding.
Adapting sexual practices to accommodate changes in veteran's emotional or physical functioning takes effort and compromise but can strengthen relationships if approached positively. By openly communicating about needs and desires, couples can find new ways to connect physically and emotionally without feeling pressured into a particular routine.
In what ways do couples adapt sexual practices to accommodate changes in veterans' emotional or physical functioning?
When it comes to sexual practice, most couples find that they need to make some adjustments as their partner's physical or emotional well-being declines due to aging, illness, injury, or other factors. This can be a sensitive topic to address, but with open communication and understanding, many couples are able to navigate these changes successfully.