Changes in Erotic Expression in Women with Fibromyalgia

Abstract

The scientific literature indicates that chronic pain influences the sex life of women. The objective of this research was to describe the changes in the erotic expression of a group of women with fibromyalgia. For this, a qualitative study of interpretive phenomenological design was conducted in which 15 women were interviewed in depth. Some participants said that the appearance of the disease was an opportunity to strengthen their relationship. Others said that their partners’ indifference and skepticism about the disease, as well as the lack of understanding in the sexual sphere, acted as barriers in the relationship. Sexual intercourse was perceived as an obligation associated with gender or as an irrelevant dimension. Sensory stimulation and preliminary sexual play were strategies that allowed them to adjust and promote mutual enjoyment. The position taken by women in the face of disease influences the erotic expression.

Impact of Fibromyalgia Syndrome on Female Sexual Function

“…Couples have to develop specific learning about new erotic ways of relating. 62 Sexual arousal involves a complex interaction that requires the processing of information from sexual stimuli, central arousal, genital response, and behavior. 63 Our results confirm that sexual arousal levels appear to be decreased in women with FMS and in women who suffer from generalized chronic pain.…”

“…The condition interferes with sexual desire and sexual pleasure experiences, and to resolve this, it is necessary that the couple becomes a true support network. Couples have to develop specific learning about new erotic ways of relating 62 …”

Repercusiones del Dolor Crónico en las Dinámicas de Pareja: Perspectivas de Mujeres con Fibromialgia

“…En relación a la sexualidad, la enfermedad impuso un límite a sus cuerpos que afectó la forma en que vivían la intimidad. En este sentido, las mujeres que convirtieron el dolor en un asunto central en sus vidas reportaron más dificultades en su vida sexual (González et al, 2014;Jiménez et al, 2017;Osborn & Smith, 2006;Sanabria & Gers, 2019). Schelesinger (1996) planteó que la sexualidad de las mujeres con fm implicaba la coexistencia de dos sensaciones opuestas: el dolor y el disfrute.…”