Erectile dysfunction: Maintaining intimacy

Dealing with erectile dysfunction can cause difficulties in a relationship, but sexual intercourse is not the only way to be intimate with your partner. There are sexual and non-sexual ways to remain close. Here are some tips:

• Talk about your feelings: Sharing the way you feel about each other can make the two of you closer. Frank discussion about each other’s needs and concerns will help to overcome barriers to a healthy relationship
• Participate in common interests: Hobbies, sport or volunteer activities can bring couples closer together
• Make time to be alone together: Try having a bath together, sharing a candlelight dinner, going for a walk or just holding each other in bed
• Experiment with alternative sexual techniques: Learn new sexual techniques that can bring pleasure without intercourse. Many book shops carry books on alternative sexual practices
• Talk to a sex counsellor: If ED is straining your relationship, consider seeking care from a professional counsellor
• Finally:  Have fun trying new and different techniques, positions and accessories. There is hope for ED, and you can have a fulfilling and satisfactory sex life. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Enjoy!