Dating
Everyone gets nervous when it comes to dating; the more comfortable you feel about yourself, the more likely you will succeed.
It is your own decision whether to tell your partner that you have epilepsy. You should tell your partner when you are ready to do so. Remember though, honesty is always the best policy. When people are properly informed, they are better able to handle situations more appropriately and without fear. Those who care about you will come to understand that you are just like anyone else, only that you happen to have epilepsy. You may come across people who will reject you after you disclose your medical situation. However, honesty is the only way you can learn to develop close relationships.
Epilepsy & Sexuality
Anyone can experience sexual problems. Studies have shown that individuals with or without epilepsy have the same symptoms if they are experiencing sexual problems. Compared with the general public, those with epilepsy have a slightly higher chance of having sexual anxieties, but these problems are just as treatable. Issues regarding sexual problems are more often recognized now, and new treatments are constantly being developed.
For men with epilepsy, sexual dysfunction is not something rare. Certain types of antiepileptic drugs may play a role. Some antiepileptic drugs, including phenobarbital, primidone (Mysoline®), and carbamazepine (Tegretol®), may cause alterations to androgens including testosterone, thereby contributing to reproductive dysfunction.
People with complex partial seizures have a higher risk of sexual dysfunction especially if seizures start in the temporal lobe. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may also interfere with sexual performance. If you feel that the AED which you are using is causing sexual difficulties, discuss your concerns with your doctor. Switching to another type of AED may help.
Low self-esteem may also contribute to sexual problems. The inability to accept yourself and your epilepsy can lead to a decrease in sexual arousal. Have confidence in yourself and remember that each person is different when it comes to sexuality. Worrying about how your seizures will effect your sexual relationship may decrease your self-esteem, and this can lead to sexual problems.
Sexual Difficulties for People with Epilepsy Social opportunities, educational and occupational experiences, are often restricted unnecessarily for people with epilepsy. - Recurrent seizures may lead to a sense of vulnerability and helplessness (poor self-esteem), impairing the capacity to form healthy, nurturing relationships.
- Fear that sexual activity will induce a seizure, particularly for those whose seizures are triggered by hyperventilation or physical exertion.
- Fear that disclosure of your condition to your partner might affect the sexual dynamics of your relationship.
- Social and familial stresses due to your sexual orientation, as well as living with epilepsy, may affect your sexual responses and relationships.
- Sexual behaviour may be negatively affected if sexual feelings are a component of your seizures.
- Hormones supporting sexual behaviour may change due to seizures and/or antiepileptic drugs.
- Antiepileptic drugs have direct effects on brain regions mediating sexuality and may also cause sexual dysfunction by secondary effects on reproductive hormones.
Although people with epilepsy have a greater possibility of sexual dysfunction, this does not mean that they can't feel and express sexual emotions. Most persons with epilepsy lead fulfilling sex lives. Any questions or concerns should be discussed with your family doctor or counsellor.
If you are sexually active,
make sure that you are informed about
AIDS and STD prevention
and birth control options,
and that you
take responsibility for your own actions. |
|
