Psoriasis can make you feel itchy in different parts of your body, including the genital area. Thus, psoriasis can have an impact on the sex life of people with this skin condition.
Psoriasis is a chronic disease in which the immune system becomes overactive. Due to this, the skin cells start multiplying rapidly. When this happens, patches of skin, mainly on the scalp, knees or genital area, become scaly and inflamed. People with psoriasis have to deal with dry and cracked skin that itches or even bleeds. These psoriasis symptoms tend to affect sleep, and therefore one’s sex life. Learn how psoriasis affects your sex life and how to deal with it.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin problem that results in itchy, scaly patches on body parts such as the scalp, knees, elbows and trunk. It’s a common, long-term problem with no permanent cure, though it can be well controlled, says dermatologist Dr Pawan Singh. It can be painful, so it can disrupt sleep and make it difficult to focus. Psoriasis tends to come and go, flare up for a few weeks or months and then improve for a while.
Psoriasis occurs when skin cells grow faster than usual. Normally, our body creates new skin cells deep within our skin and they slowly rise through the different layers of the skin. They continue to move until they reach the surface, where they die and then fall. This cycle usually lasts about 3 to 4 weeks. But in people with psoriasis, that process speeds up to just 3 to 7 days, the expert says. Thus, skin cells quickly build up on the surface, leading to scaly, scaly crusts.
What are the symptoms of psoriasis?
Common signs and symptoms of psoriasis include:
- Patches of rash that range from small, dandruff-like flakes to larger patches that cover much of the body.
- Rashes can be different colors, such as shades of purple with gray scales and pink or red with silver scales.
- Small spots with scales.
- Dry and cracked skin that may bleed.
- Itching
- Combustion
- Feeling of pain
How does psoriasis affect sex life?
Psoriasis can affect intimacy in a number of ways, causing anxiety about the body, discomfort during sex, and reducing romantic desire. People with psoriasis may have low self-esteem and may experience stigma and discrimination, which can make it difficult for them to be in a romantic relationship and date. Sex can be difficult because friction can irritate the skin or worsen symptoms, especially if the psoriasis affects the genitals or surrounding skin.
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Some medications used to treat psoriasis can affect libido and sexual function. For example, Rheumatrex (methotrexate) is a powerful drug often prescribed for moderate to severe psoriasis. It works by suppressing the overactive immune system responsible for psoriasis, says the expert. Methotrexate can cause loss of libido, according to research published in Sexual Medicine magazine in 2020.
During a 2022 study, published in Medicine magazine, it was found that more than 90 percent of participants felt slightly unattractive because of psoriasis. The researchers also found that psoriasis occasionally affected the sex lives of nearly 80 percent of these participants, and more than 50 percent of them avoided intercourse. The location of psoriasis, especially on the genital area, face and hands, also had a significant impact on the level of sexual problems of these participants.
How can people with psoriasis enjoy their sex life?
Psoriasis should not interfere with having a healthy and fulfilling love life. Here are some tips:
1. Talk to your partner
Discuss your concerns with your partner openly and well in advance to ease worries and enjoy sex without distractions. Be upfront about your psoriasis, clarifying that it’s not contagious and doesn’t spread through physical contact, says the expert. If necessary, invite your partner to accompany you to the doctor’s appointment for more information.
2. Set the mood
Choose comfortable underwear made of natural fabrics to avoid irritation or discomfort. Choose light-colored bedding to hide flakes and try to relax by playing soothing music.
3. Take care of your skin
After sex, gently cleanse and moisturize your skin, applying psoriasis medication as needed. Use fragrance-free moisturizers and natural oils to keep your skin hydrated and healthy, suggests the expert.
4. Take care of yourself
During a 2018 analysis, published in the International Journal of Dermatology, in 31 to 88 percent of cases, people reported that stress was a trigger for psoriasis. Since stress is linked to psoriasis, address it through counseling or therapy and prioritize regular exercise to boost mood and energy levels. Practice self-acceptance and focus on building confidence, knowing that true intimacy involves accepting all aspects of yourself.
Gradually build trust and intimacy by allowing yourself to feel comfortable and confident with your partner before having sex.
