Tips on improving sexual intimacy after a disabling injury or illness
TTSH’s principal occupational therapist Shirlene Toh offers the following strategies:
Communicate openly
• Share your needs, desires and concerns regarding your sex life. Explain what you want from your partner and also listen to your partner’s needs.
• Listen carefully to each other. Maintain eye contact with your partner, and ask for clarification if unsure.
Plan for intimacy
• Organise a time for intimacy or intercourse when both of you are well-rested and have no interruptions. Factor in adequate time.
• Have a relaxing time together. For example, plan for a special dinner with your spouse once a month; shower together or enjoy a couple’s massage.
• Explore your own body for sexual sensations and areas of heightened sensitivity. When you know what you want and like, you can better express your needs and desires to your partner.
• If intercourse is too challenging, there are many possible ways to give and receive sexual pleasure — for instance, through skin-to-skin contact, hugging and kissing.
