Lupus

[ValerianSutidze]

Hello. I'm a guy, 25 years old, with lupus. I have elevated smd1 antigens. How do you think having sex affects lupus activity in men? That is, they need to have sex more or less often to keep their sex hormone levels high? Thanks!

[Hamptons]

I am unsure that there are any written articles on sex and lupus. I should imagine you would have to manage energy levels and think creatively about position to avoid joint pain. But, I am sure it will greatly improve mental health and release the positive hormone effect it does for non lupus sufferers. Don’t let Lupus take away the joy.

[whisperit]

Hello ValerianS,

As far as know, the understanding of how testosterone in particular affects SLE is poorly understood. There is some evidence that it may help lower ANA production, but in a small sample of women treated with testosterone patches, no significant effect on disease activity was seen.

academic.oup.com/rheumatolo...

Also of interest, corticosteroid treatment does seem to lower testosterone levels, and this study suggests men on steroids should be aware of this, even if its clinical significance in terms of disease activity is unclear onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi...

in general, the consensus seems to be that male testosterone levels may be increased by sex and physical activity. Again, I'm not sure that its clear whether this is a temporary or a long term effect

X

[ValerianSutidze in reply to whisperit]

Thank you so much for the detailed answer!

[mimiof9]

Wow! Talk about an old wound. I was in a long term relationship that was physical until the pain outweighed the pleasure. I was happy 'just' being friends. We carried on like that for a few more years until he said...I love you but if I can't have you I'm letting you go. That was nearly 6 months ago. It's been years since I've been physical. It causes too much joint pain and discomfort. In my defense he was too out of shape to hold himself up off of me so I was always on top. 😔

[Alida_Bennett Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi ValerianSutidze

Welcome to the LUPUS UK HealthUnlocked Community. We offer a free information pack which you can download or request at:

lupusuk.org.uk/request-info...

I hope you will find our blog article on lupus and relationships useful:

lupusuk.org.uk/lupus-and-re...

The article discusses how pain, extreme fatigue, and side effects of medications can affect sex in people with lupus.

The following links may also be helpful to you. The first is our publication specifically written for men who have been diagnosed with lupus, and the second is in relation to fatigue and lifestyle, both of which touch on sex and relationships.

lupusuk.org.uk/wp-content/u...

lupusuk.org.uk/wp-content/u...

If I can help further, please let me know.

Kind regards

Alida

[ValerianSutidze]

Thank you very much for your detailed answer!