Talking to Your Partner About Prolapse

Talking to your partner about prolapse may be difficult, but is worth it.

 

Being diagnosed with a prolapse can feel very socially isolating. Worse, it may feel as if you can't even discuss the condition in detail with your partner. This may be because you are concerned it will cause them to see you differently, or it may be because you feel that you can't discuss symptoms such as incontinence.

 

However, if you can overcome your reservations, and share your condition with your partner, you may find that not only are they a great ally in your struggles, but that it may deepen your intimacy and strengthen your relationship.

 

Talking about prolapse with your partner may not be easy, particularly if you are not used to talking about your genitals with your partner, or about your health issues. The following websites cover communication skills. It may be useful for you, and your partner, to review these prior to discussing your prolapse in detail, in order for you to both have a positive experience of the discussion.

• "How can we communicate better?" is produced by the charity LoveIsRespect.org, which promotes healthy relationships
• "Effective Communication" is from HelpGuide.org, an online charity that provides accurate, up to date, mental health information
• "Communication" is produced by Relationships Australia, a large Australian charity that gives people skills to have positive interpersonal relationships

For an example of a supportive partner, P. R. Newton's memoir And Then My Uterus Fell Out may be useful. Newton shared her problems with her husband, who proved to be a true partner to her.

If you have a pre-existing reason not to trust your partner, do not feel obliged to share information about your health with them. Use your judgement, and consider your emotional and physical safety. Sharing private details will not 'fix' a relationship that already has problems.