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Sexless Marriage (when one partner is ill)

Men's Health | Last Active: Dec 15 11:01am | Replies (196)

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@hjg2

I haven't yet seen my situation mentioned here...
My wife had a massive stroke four years ago. It caused complete paralysis of her right arm and leg, along with loss of speech. She developed severe anger issues as a result of the brain damage. There is so much damage infact, she doesn't remember being married to me or any previous intimacy. I am not allowed to hug or kiss her. There is no touching of any kind allowed beyond the normal caregiver duties....clipping finger/toe nails, occasionally brushing hair, etc.... Any attempt at trying to show we were married... (pictures, videos, etc...) are met with a strong angry denial. I'm not allowed into any room if she will be in any state of undress. She'll start screaming and covering up like I am a complete stranger. I guess I am now. I'm unable to get her to see a neuropsychologist, counselor, etc... We actually had a good relationship and thirteen year marriage before that event.

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Replies to "I haven't yet seen my situation mentioned here... My wife had a massive stroke four years..."

@hjg2, this must be so hard to have your relationship with your wife reduced to caregiver as if you were never her partner. Your experience is shared by some people whose partner have dementia-related illnesses and don't remember who they are. Her anger and denial must be very hard on you.

You mentioned that it's not possible to get her to see a counselor or therapist. Have you considered seeing a therapist for you? It might help to talk with someone so that you don't have to carry this load on your own. What do you think?