Accept body changes and restore self-image

A healthy self-image
Changes in your joints and other areas due to arthritis may change the way you look and the way you move. Body changes do not change who you are as a person; however, they can interfere with an otherwise healthy self-image by causing you to feel less attractive, less youthful, or less confident sexually or socially. It is possible to work through these negative feelings, to accept body changes, and to maintain your personal interest in life. Here are some ways to do this.

Accept
Accepting change can take time. You may have feelings of resentment, anger, grief, blame, or depression about your or your partner's arthritis. These feelings are natural, and you should not criticize yourself for thinking them. Accepting such feelings is the first step that will enable you to work through them. You will then find you can replace negative feelings with a realistic acceptance of how your body has changed.

Communicate
If you have arthritis, ask your partner how he or she feels about the changes in your body. If your partner is concerned that sexual activity may be painful for you, or has negative feelings about the changes in your body, he or she may be anxious about being sexual with you. You may both begin to avoid sex altogether, and this could create tension between you. Talking with one another can help prevent this.

If you are not very interested in sex, or are less able to have sex physically, share these feelings with your partner. This helps prevent misunderstandings and enables you both to stay close with one another at times when you may need it most.

You can continue to express affection while seeking ways to please your partner and yourself, physically. By talking to one another, you can work together to discover satisfying options for both of you. If it's difficult to begin talking about these matters, you might find help from your doctor, minister, nurse, social worker, or therapist.

Take care of yourself
Careful grooming can help you improve your self-image. Selecting the right cut or design in clothes and choosing becoming colors will help you look and feel better. Make it one of your daily goals to look your best. It will boost your morale and have a positive effect on those around you.

Don't accept stereotypes
If you are disabled by arthritis, some people may mistakenly assume you're not interested in sex. You certainly don't have to accept this view of yourself. People with severe disabilities can and do have satisfying sexual relationships. Satisfying sex can help you accept changes in your body, enhance your confidence in your own sexuality, and help you feel better physically.