Talking to your partner about UTIs and sex: Recurrent UTI Support with Dr. Sula Windgassen, Part 3

In this video Dr. Sula Windgassen discusses the following:
● Working with a therapist can help those experiencing recurrent UTI to distinguish which of their behaviors are preserving their safety and wellbeing, and which are maintaining or exacerbating their anxiety as these can be difficult to distinguish.
● For those who sometimes experience UTI after sex, Dr. Windgassen recommends documenting the experiences that didn’t result in a UTI after sex. Often, we remain so focussed on the times that a flare up did occur afterwards, that we dismiss the sexual experiences that were pleasurable and incident free.
● Writing and documenting experiences can help patients gain a more objective view of what’s going on.
● Some safety preparation-such as peeing before and after sex, washing thoroughly and having antibiotics on hand in case of a flare up-can help reduce anxiety around engaging in sex.
● Patients may also consider ways to pleasurably connect with their partners that don’t involve penetration. This more tentative approach could help ease initial anxiety around sex.
● Open communication with your partner is key. Voicing your concerns can reduce anxiety which leads to better outcomes.
● If speaking with your partner feels overwhelming, there are ways to prepare such as writing down what you wish to communicate. It also helps to figure out what outcome you’re seeking.
● Because these types of conversations can be difficult and emotion-fueled on both sides, some may consider seeking some mediation from a relationship counselor.
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Check out the playlist for the entire interview: • Dr. Sula Windgassen on...
Read about Chronic Urinary Tract Infection vs. Recurrent UTI here: liveutifree.com/chronic-urina...
Learn about Overcoming Pain During Sex and Psychotherapy Support Alongside Chronic Illness from Sabrina Sarro here: • Overcoming Pain During...
Learn more about Sex, Food Sensitivities & Mental Health from Dr. Stewart Bundrick here: • Sex, Food Sensitivitie...
Learn more about Dr. Windgassen at www.healthpsychologist.co.uk/
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About Live UTI Free
Live UTI Free is a patient advocacy and research organization. We do not endorse specific treatment approaches, clinicians or diagnostics methods. The content of this video does not provide medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. The medical and/or nutritional information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. liveutifree.com/
Post-production: Melissa Wairimu / _melissa_l_…