Relationships

It is important to acknowledge the extra burden that partners and other loved ones can carry when a woman has Pelvic Instability.

• Make sure your partner understands Pelvic Instability, get them to read the information you receive and even come to doctor/physio appointment if possible

• Attending meetings of the Pelvic Instability Association is a good way to meet other people in the same boat!

• Talk about things, acknowledging that things are likely to improve

• Avoid making any major decisions at this time

• Safeguard privacy, making time for just each other

• If you have other children, invest in a babysitter so that you can get out for even a short while

• Consider asking someone outside the family to act as a support person just for your partner

Maintaining a sexual relationship

• Be aware of the touch deprivation that can occur when you are using a walking aid, wheelchair, or sleeping in a recliner chair

• Cuddles & non-sexual touch may be more important eg getting your partner to rub moisturiser into your feet

• Consider non-penetrative sexual contact if it’s too difficult or painful to have intercourse

• Trying different positions for sex eg rear entry kneeling on a pillow or large cushion over chair or side by side in lying position, if using missionary position using rolled up pillows to support knees

Consider counselling to help you get through this period with your relationship intact