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Migraines and relationships advice

I'd like to open up about my relationship with my partner but the effects and ups and downs
But I'm not sure how to word it or what is allowed I want to be careful as I don't want to be kicked out of the group

  1. HI
    Please know this is a safe space to share your experiences with us. Let me share some other posts dealing with relationships so you can get a feel for what others discuss;
    https://migraine.com/search?s=relationships
    I hope this helps! Nancy Harris Bonk, team member

    1. thank you for reading everything you have and replying to all you have read
      I did research sex with migraines but firstly I wanted to see how it affects others or what other people did or have done to get by and at what cost to there relationship sex is a big part of life and relationships and men and women have needs and from what I've read and how true it is I'm unsure but shall we say happy alone time isn't the same thing or have the same affect it's the touch of another body and engaging with another person that releases things in the brain as I said it's only what I read and how true or false I don't know but I'd take all the help I can
      Therapy in unsure about obviously discussing in person I am a little shy face to face and my migraines don't always play ball when I want them to I've missed my own brother's a d dads birthday party's on account for my migraines and I've also left a friend's party just after arriving
      And there's the expense to consider especially when I'm receiving hardly any help and I'm self employed
      As for talking to my partner I want to but on the other hand she's my rock and I've already burdened her so much with my baggage and she sticks by me and also has her own health issues that I don't think I can bring myself to put anymore weight on her shoulders just to see if it makes me feel any better I respect and think to much of her to do that to her and then if it did help in the slightest it would make me feel that that's what I'm using her for as the time we do have with kids to ourselves that all I want to do is cuddle up with her and tell her how much I love her
      But that's where the weird thoughts come in that I've never really thought before
      I've tried watching different things to see if theres anything to make happy time happy time I've thought about sex chat and looked at other things with the thought of if it helps I'd do it but I couldn't bring myself to do other things
      Many thanks as always and always a pleasure talking to you x

    2. Sounds like you are doing some good and careful thinking about this, as well as other topics regarding how migraine is impacting your life. It's a process, and clarity can sometimes come into view with time. Hopefully, others in our community will chime in with their thoughts on this. Glad to hear you've already looked at our resources on this topic- I think we've got helpful existing information worth reviewing for others who may be reading along - interested in learning more. Regarding the cost and discomfort that can come with talking to a therapist about sex, I did want to mention that these days there are online therapy options that are more affordable and because they are on zoom, rather than in person, it can decrease potential embarrassment that can arise with speaking on these topics. Again, I believe with time, you'll gain clarity as to which direction works best for you. We appreciate your raising this conversation here. Warmly - Holly (team member)

  2. Thank you for replying and sharing with me it's nice to be thought of and someone who listens/reads and takes it all in and gives positive feedback rather than just not knowing what to say or do like most
    From the bottom of my heart thank you x x

    1. Thank you for your kind words. That's what we're here for, James- to provide information, compassion, and support. It's an honor and a pleasure to connect with others who are managing migraine and navigating the same challenges. Like you, I enjoy my work as well! Warmly - Holly (team member)

    2. well your an angel
      Even with a bad migraine it's nice to finally talk to someone on the same page so it's been lovely talking to you x

  3. Hi James! Belated welcome to the community. 😀 So glad you're already feeling supported here! As far as what's ok to talk about here, the general rule is that as long as it's not illegal or selling a product, it's fine. Sex and other tough issues are an important part of life for most people, and this site exists to discuss ALL the ways migraine can impact our lives. 😀 Conversations like this one are very common. Just remember that this website is public when thinking about what you want to share.

    Now, as for your concerns, it seems like your heart is in the right place and that you deeply care about your partner. From my perspective, if something was bothering my husband, I would want to know! Hopefully, she also cares deeply for you and will understand your desire to be closer at times ... but also afraid about it causing a migraine. This may take some experimenting. Remember that there are many ways to be intimate, and you could still experience migraine changes from cuddling, massage, etc, though everyone is different.

    Try not to view the desire for intimacy or sex as a "burden" to your partner, especially if she hasn't called it a burden. Bonding time is important, with or without sex.

    Lastly, re: therapy, there are also platforms online where you can talk to a therapist through text. Better Help is one example that is popular (I haven't tried it)...you could type a message when you are feeling well and read their response when you are ready. That might be easier to navigate around migraine.

    You're not alone, James! Take good care of yourself. See you around! -Melissa, team member

    1. Whether or not you're aware of it, it sounds like you're making progress in thinking through these complexities as you go. Writing out your thoughts can be an additional helpful way to make progress and come to some clarity about many topics and especially those that are more challenging in life. It's wonderful to develop several strategies to find clarity and solutions. By joining our community- you've identified a positive strategy that involves connecting with others who are living with the same condition as you who are able to brainstorm ideas and share experiences, wisdom earned, and lessons learned. Folks here are giving you ideas to explore and consider (including therapy, communicating with your partner directly, and on). And in the process, you are writing out your thoughts which in itself is leading you to further clarity.

      I just wanted to draw your attention to this process as it is unfolding and appreciate the work you are doing to find solutions. It all shows that you are a resourceful and capable person. Sometimes migraine makes us forget how strong and capable we are- and that despite all this condition takes from us (and in this case, because of all it can take)- we continue to dig deep to figure our way through life. So, bravo to you! Keep going! Warmly - Holly (team member)

    2. as always thank you for your kind words I think that's the first time I've ever had a bravo for managing how I do especially being unable to take much for pain relief and things so thank you
      I guess sometimes it's easier to get led astray and go for something that's more convenient or easier
      Like putting any sort of strain or stress or worry on my partner than she already has
      Maybe that's why I kept thinking about having a special friend
      I guess because I'm in my own head alot and there isn't many people to talk to and all my partner is a funny and loving person my best friend is only ever about laughing that I don't want to impact there mood because I'm in pain and I guess I just want to be at there level instead of bringing them down to mine
      Thank you again as always I really do love talking to you x

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