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Ulcerative Colitis and Your Menstrual Cycle – What’s the Connection?

Increased risks of sexual dysfunction and vaginal pain are heightened

Sexual dysfunction can occur in two ways: absence of sexual desire and pain during sexual intercourse. Studies show that over 50 percent of women with Ulcerative colitis experience sexual dysfunction. The study also showed that intimacy and body image were some of their main problems.

UC can cause depression which in turn can lead to sexual dysfunction.  Its symptoms can make vaginal sex painful and even painful. It would help to know that every structure in the pelvis is connected, so when one starts misbehaving the rest will be affected.

In some cases, you may also have pelvic floor spasms: this is when the muscles of the pelvic floor become stiff. Stiffness of the muscles makes sex hard. You are more susceptible to spasms if you have scar tissue or inflammation in your pelvis. You can visit your doctor to recommend relaxation methods to treat this condition.

Experts suggest you try different sex positions to help reduce the pain. You can also try physical intimacy instead of traditional intercourse. You can focus on sitting shoulder-to-shoulder, hip-to-hip, or knee-to-knee, or give each other back or foot rubs. It would help to speak to your health care provider if you notice any sexual issues.