English 
简体中文 Intimacy and Lung Disease
Objectives:
At the end of the session, the participant will have:
- An increased understanding of the impact of lung disease on intimacy and sexual activity.
- An increased awareness of how to manage common concerns.
Facilitator:
This session may be facilitated by a respiratory nurse or sexual and reproductive health nurse.
| Topic | Content | Resource |
|---|---|---|
| Impact of lung disease on intimacy and on sexual activity (ref 24 and 25) | Impact of physical (breathlessness, fatigue) and emotional (fear, anxiety and depression) factors on sexual activity Impact of medications on sexual drive and function. |
Better living with COPD (Chapter 19) C.O.P.E Module 5 |
| Sex versus love. | Communication with a partner, multiple aspects that contribute to a relationship. | Better living with COPD (Chapter 19) C.O.P.E Module 5 |
| Strategies for addressing common concerns | Suggestion options include pacing, suggested positions, incorporation of breathing control and energy conservation techniques, use of reliever medications and oxygen therapy, awareness of symptom exacerbation, avoidance of factors | Handouts on alternative sexual positions for energy conservation. C.O.P.E Module 5 |
| Summary and questions. | Contact details for further / confidential discussion. |
