Sciatica and sex?

[tagger]

I don't know if there are any women out there that experience this problem, but I thought I'd try this board first and then maybe the "women's" board.
I have an "unstable left scaroilliac joint" and the pain in my buttocks is often quite unbearable.
When my husband and I have sex I have trouble not letting those muscles do a lot of work! I pay heavily for this afterwards. Or if I am already in pain sex is obviously not very enjoyable for me.
Does anyone have any advice? Different positions etc? I hate to turn him down as we're just getting back on track after a couple of rough years....Tagger

[SharonJ]

Hi there. I do not have quite the same thing, I have severe impingement of the L5 nerve root caused by spondylolisthesis, so I think many of my symptoms may be the same. I have found that I am more comfortable if my husband takes the passive role and I the agressive, if you understand my meaning. That way, I avoid having to hold my legs up, which really increases my pain. Other times, I try placing a pillow at the small of my back which helps a bit. I will also be sure to take pain meds about 1/2 hour before. In general, I find that my husband needs to be more patient and gentle in order for us both to enjoy the experience.

------------------
Each and everyday you have the opportunity to Choose Your Attitude. Choose wisely.
************************
Grade 1 Spondylolisthesis for 26 years, recently progressed to Grade II
With marked canal and foraminal stenosis and severe compression of L5 Nerve root.
Scheduled for L5/S1 360 degree fusion on 9/8
DDD and bone spurs T11-S1
Herniated C3-C4
Disk/spur complex C4-C5
Significant bone spurs C5-C6
Can anyone say "just give me a whole new spine!"

[tagger]

Thanks for the answer, I appreciate the help. By agressive do you mean you're on top? We've tried that but I still end up using those buttock muscles.I'm wondering if I should try the "women's" forum? I'm feeling discouraged. (because on top of the Sciatica pain I have vaginal dryness...post menopausal...but that's for another forum...lol)...Thks for the advice...Tagger

[ztuks]

i wasnt going to mention that..lol..but since its been stated already..even stomach muscles during such events can cause alot of pain...

[Disavowed]

Not to be discouraging..but top and bottom positions are out....try side position...also, if you are experiencing dryness, do get a dr to prescribe an estrogen based vaginal cream, such as premarin etc., or you could benefit from a compounding pharmacist who could create a natural hormone just for your needs..the vaginal cream is not absorbed in the same way that pill forms are so don't be concerned with that, as I was at first, but learned later how the cream is basically designed to work different...some women insert vitamin E capsules about an hour before the intimate event when they do not want to use hormones..hope you get on the right track...I too have buttock pain...