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Lecture Notes

Chronic illnesses are the main causes of death and disease in the US. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis are the three most prevalent diseases in America. Although these conditions are not always described as disabilities, they may require considerable adjustments in a person's sexuality because they, or the medications or treatments given to control them, may affect libido, sexual capability or responsiveness, and body image.

For diabetes, the nerve damage or circulatory problems cause sexual problems. Men with heavy alcohol use and poor blood sugar control may increase the risk of erectile problems if they have diabetes, and women with diabetes may have less interest in being sexual due to frequent yeast infections and vaginal dryness.

 

For cardiovascular disease, the fear of sex based on the belief that sexual activity might provoke another heart attack or a stroke is real. Individuals may enter a period of depression including a loss of libido. However, in general, the chance of a person with a prior heart attack having another one during sex is no greater than that of anyone else.

 

Individuals with arthritis are characterized by painful inflammation and swelling of the joints, usually of the knees, hips, and lower back, which may lead to deformity of the limbs. Sexual intimacy may be difficult because of the pain. As a result, oral sex, general pleasuring of the body, and creative positioning have its advantages for those who have arthritis. Furthermore, applying moist heat to the joints prior to sexual activity may also help. There are also individuals with developmental disabilities. These are defined as mildly or moderately disabled people who may be able to learn to behave appropriately, protect themselves from abuse, and understand the basics of reproduction. Individuals with developmental disabilities can have severe, lifelong, chronic conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, language and learning disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and sensory impairments. However, these individuals still may want to engage in sexual activity and have a right to do so.